Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Anxiety to fall asleep and insomania
Hi Dr
I am on prescribed medicine on Serta 25mg with zolfresh sublingual spray at night 2 times and melatonin 5mg.
I am trying for pregnancy also.
Am taking this zolfresh spray 2 times at night from past 22 days and I feel am dependent on it.
Can anyone guide me how to quit this completely??
Is this safe?
How should be the tapering plan to get rid of withdrawal symptoms .
Am scared to fall asleep without that.
Kindly guide..
Answers (6)
Hi,
Let's have a comprehensive and detailed clinical interview to understand your situation better.
For a personalized plan, find me by searching "Dr Abhinav Tewari Neuropsychiatrist Lucknow" on Google Maps â my details are listed there.
áºÄ¤ÃŤŠÃ
PP available on nineâ¹ fourâ´ one¹ fiveâµ three³ nineâ¹ fourâ´ three³ sevenâ· nineâ¹
Kind Regards,
Dr Abhinav Tewari
Consultant Neuro-Psychiatrist
MBBS (A.I.I.M.S., New Delhi)
MD (Psychiatry) (A.I.I.M.S., New Delhi)
DNB (NBEMS)
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced psychiatrist online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
"Hi there, I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but you’ve already taken the first brave step. I can guide you with a clear treatment plan tailored just for you, so you can feel better and regain control over your life. You can reach me directly on WhatsApp for quick support on seven zero eight two zero two two zero six two."
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
It is understandable to feel worried about stopping Zolfresh (zolpidem), especially when sleep has improved with it. However, after only 22 days of use, significant physical dependence is less likely, and many patients can successfully discontinue it with a gradual reduction plan.
A commonly used approach is to gradually reduce the number of sprays over 1–2 weeks rather than stopping abruptly.
Next Steps
Schedule a review with your psychiatrist to discuss tapering Zolfresh.
Health Tips
A gradual taper, combined with sleep hygiene and management of underlying anxiety, is usually successful.
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Zolfresh (zolpidem) can cause psychological dependence if used regularly for sleep, especially when there is fear of sleeping without it. Using it for around 3 weeks does not always mean severe dependence, but it should not be stopped suddenly without medical advice.
Next Steps
Consult your psychiatrist before tapering. Usually, the dose is reduced gradually over days to weeks depending on the amount being used, sleep pattern, anxiety level, and other medicines. Since you are also planning pregnancy, your doctor may review the safety and necessity of all sleep medications and shift more towards non-medication sleep strategies if possible.
Health Tips
Do not abruptly stop or suddenly reduce frequent zolpidem use on your own.
Maintain fixed sleep timings and avoid daytime naps.
Reduce screen time, caffeine, and late-night overthinking.
Practice relaxation exercises and calming bedtime routines.
Remember that fear of “not being able to sleep” itself can worsen insomnia temporarily during tapering.
Seek urgent help if severe anxiety, panic, tremors, or suicidal thoughts occur.
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.