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A solution for treating insomnia was a medication that slowed down an overactive nervous system. After many years and unsuccessful attempts, Z-drugs were created as an alternative to other more potent sleeping medications. These sedative-hypnotic medications, like Sonata, are viewed by many as a miracle drug that helped them finally get to sleep. 

Unfortunately, despite their less potent tendencies, sleep aids still run the risk of causing addiction. Sonata addiction is when someone can’t function without the drug, which can lead to a road of hardship.

What Are the Signs of Sonata Addiction?

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Doctors will typically look at your medical history to determine if your history of drug abuse if you can use Sonata. Unfortunately, those becoming dependent on Sonata in the early stages may not show any signs. Since Sonata is a prescription, many people may overlook its toxic effects. 

Contrary to popular belief, prescription drugs can be dangerous when misused. A popular misconception is that these are harmless drugs. While they are beneficial when used as prescribed, it’s challenging to know when you’ve crossed that line of helping yourself and necessity. A doctor must monitor your use of Sonata; otherwise, a substance use disorder can develop. 

Sonata users may show signs of abuse, which will allow practitioners or family members to identify a growing addiction. If you feel that you or a loved one is becoming dependent on Sonata, you must understand the symptoms that come along with Sonata addiction. 

Long-term effects include:

Sonata is not a benzodiazepine, but it has several of the same effects. The drug interacts with gamma-Aminobutyric acid or GABA, and the body will adjust to its presence. Once the brain adapts to Sonata, the drug will then change how it functions. If you stop using the medication, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, which include:

In severe cases, withdrawal symptoms will consist of seizures and hallucinations. Insomnia can become much worse.  

What’s Involved in Addiction Treatment?

While Z-drug addiction is not as dangerous as benzo addiction, there is still room for concern. Drugs that affect GABA can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. If you decide to get sober, you must consider completing an addiction treatment program at an accredited facility.

Prescription drug abuse is a significant problem in the United States, and getting treatment is the best option. 

The first step in the continuum of care is medical detox. Once you enter into detox, you will put on a tapering schedule that helps you slowly ease off Sonata. By doing this, you will reduce the withdrawal symptoms to make the process as easy as possible.

The tapering process will allow you a fast track to stabilization, and this will be done with other medications, in addition to the taper. 

Once you complete detox, medical professionals will determine if further treatment is necessary. If you’ve developed a severe Sonata addiction, they may suggest that you enter a treatment facility to learn how to cope with your triggers in a healthy way. While Sonata addiction is deemed less dangerous, it can still take over your life. You must consider your options.