Sleep · FAQ
What happens if I stop my sleep treatment?
Short answer
Stopping sleep treatment may allow symptoms or breathing problems to return. Results vary. Some insomnia medicines can cause rebound insomnia or withdrawal if stopped suddenly. Talk with your prescribing physician before changing medication. If a device is uncomfortable, ask your physician or dentist about a safe plan rather than simply stopping.
The effects of stopping depend on what you use and why it was prescribed. Auto-CPAP and oral appliances generally treat sleep apnea while they are being used. Breathing disruptions and daytime symptoms may return when treatment stops. Results vary. Feeling better during treatment does not mean the underlying condition has gone away.
Some insomnia medicines should not be stopped suddenly, especially after regular use. Depending on the drug, stopping may cause withdrawal symptoms or a short-term return of worse insomnia. Your physician can explain whether a gradual dose reduction is needed. Do not create your own taper or use someone else's medicine to manage symptoms.
If mask discomfort, jaw pain, cost, or side effects make treatment hard to continue, contact the care team. A licensed physician or dentist can review the problem and discuss options. Canceling a service does not replace a medical stopping plan. If sleepiness returns, avoid driving or risky tasks and seek advice promptly.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.