Ambien

Generic name: Zolpidem tartrate

What is Ambien?

Ambien is used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, which includes trouble falling asleep, waking up too early in the morning, or waking up often during the night.

What is the most important information I should know about Ambien?

Do not take Ambien if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities that require mental alertness or coordination after taking Ambien until you feel fully awake.

After you stop taking Ambien, you may experience lightheadedness, trouble sleeping, nausea, and nervousness for 1 to 2 days.

When sleep medicines are used every night for more than a few weeks, they may lose their effectiveness or cause dependence.

Call your doctor if your insomnia worsens or does not improve within 7 to 10 days of beginning treatment. This may mean that there is another condition causing your sleeping problems.

Tell your doctor if you experience abnormal thinking, mood problems, behavior changes, anxiety, or memory loss while taking this medication.

Who should not take Ambien?

Do not take Ambien if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ambien?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ambien. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription drugs, or street drugs. In addition, tell your doctor if you have a history of suicidal thoughts, depression, or mental illness.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The recommended dose is 10 milligrams (mg) taken immediately before bedtime. Elderly patients and those with liver problems may need to take a lower dose.

The safety and effectiveness of Ambien have not been established in children.

How should I take Ambien?

Take Ambien immediately before going to bed. Do not take Ambien with or immediately after a meal.

Do not take Ambien unless you are able to stay in bed for a full night (7-8 hours) before you must be active again.

What should I avoid while taking Ambien?

Do not drink alcohol while taking Ambien because it can increase the drug's side effects.

When you first start taking Ambien, you may be drowsy the next day. Use extreme care while doing anything that requires complete alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.

Do not take Ambien with other medications that can make you sleepy.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ambien?

If Ambien is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ambien with the following: alcohol, chlorpromazine, imipramine, ketoconazole, and rifampin.

What are the possible side effects of Ambien?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, drugged feeling

Can I receive Ambien if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Ambien during pregnancy are unknown. Sleep medicines may cause sedation of your unborn baby when used during the last weeks of pregnancy. Ambien should not be used if you are breastfeeding. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Ambien?

Skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Do not take more than your total daily dose in any 24-hour period.

How should I store Ambien?

Store at room temperature.