| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Ambien |
| Benefits | Ambien is a reputable insomnia treatment. Its generic name is zolpidem. It is available in both immediate release and extended release versions. |
| Ingredients | Zolpidem |
| Dosage | Ranges from 2mg to 6mg per day, divided into two to three doses |
| Price | from $2.8 per pill |
| Buy Now | |
Have you also been having sleepless nights recently due to stress? Are you also here to learn about Ambien? Yes, it is a wonder drug that could turn your nightmares into peaceful sleep.
Ambien is an FDA-approved insomnia treatment. It is a very effective drug when used carefully. Here, we will share the usage instructions for this medicine. Moreover, it is a controlled substance, so we will also share its potential side effects and drug interactions as well. These will ensure your safety during its usage.
Carefully reading and following the instructions shared in this article will enable you to get your night’s sleep and happy dreams back. Let’s start with an overview of this medicine.
What is Ambien?
Ambien is a reputable insomnia treatment. Its generic name is zolpidem. It is available in both immediate release and extended release versions. It belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics. These work by slowing down your brain activity to help you sleep.
It is usually prescribed for short-term use. It improves the quality of your sleep. It helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Its misuse or overuse can lead to dependence, tolerance, and several other health risks.
How Do You Use Ambien?
Follow your doctor’s instructions or the medication guide. It is the best way to use it. Take it with your mouth. Take it just before sleeping on an empty stomach. Don’t take it after eating dinner. It may react slowly. Don’t take it if you are not sure you are going to sleep for less than 7-8 hours; otherwise, it may cause side effects.
The dosage instructions for Ambien vary from person to person. It depends on several factors, like the severity of your insomnia, age, gender, weight, general health, etc. Your doctor will recommend the most suitable dosage depending on your diagnosis. The maximum dosage allowed is 10 mg per day.
- Immediate release dosage for adults: 7.5
- Extended-release dosage for adults: 6.25
Potential Side Effects of Ambien
Ambien is a Schedule IV-controlled substance, according to the US Drug Enforcement Agency, which means it is a sensitive drug. Its misuse can cause several potential side effects. These can be both mild and serious. Let’s take a look at these in detail below.
Mild side effects:
These are the mild and less threatening side effects of Ambien. You may even notice them despite taking them at the recommended dosage and following the necessary precautions if you have just started taking them.
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Back pain
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Xerostomia (dry mouth)
- Fever
- Trouble concentrating
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Anxiety
- Memory loss
Severe Side Effects:
These are the severe side effects associated with this medicine. These can be life-threatening, so immediately visit a hospital if you notice any of them.
- Allergic reaction
- Hallucination
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Breathing problems
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Hypersexual behaviour
- Anorexia (loss of appetite)
Ambien Drug Interactions
Ambien also has the potential to cause drug interactions as well. It may interact with your medicines and other dietary items. This might result in side effects or reduce the effect of this medicine. That’s why you should discuss all your medicines and foods with your doctor. Let’s take a look at some of the items that could potentially interact with it.
- Alcohol
- Benzodiazepines
- Opioids
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Muscle relaxants
- Antihistamines
- Anticonvulsants
- Antifungal medications
- Certain antibiotics
Necessary Precautions for Safe Ambien Use
Here are some necessary precautions for using Ambien (Zolpidem). Following these will increase the effect of this medicine and keep you safe from potential side effects as well.
- Only take Ambien as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while using Ambien.
- Do not operate machinery or drive a vehicle until you know how Ambien affects you.
- Inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking before using Ambien.
- Take Ambien just before bedtime and ensure you have at least 7-8 hours of sleep.
- Do not crush, chew, or break Ambien tablets; swallow them whole.
- If you experience unusual behaviors or thoughts, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Do not increase the dosage of Ambien without consulting your doctor.
- Keep Ambien out of the reach of children and pets.
- Store Ambien at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Final Words
Ambien (Zolpidem) has helped millions around the globe sleep. It has been rated very highly by insomnia patients. However, it has also shown side effects in some people due to its sensitivity. But you can stay safe by following your doctor’s usage and lifestyle advice while using this medicine.
Ensure proper sleep hygiene while using it to get the best results from this medicine. Inform your doctor if you notice any potential side effects of this medicine. Don’t try to self-medicate with this medicine; it might worsen your condition and cause even more problems.