Generic Name: Zolpidem
Typical Brand Name(s): Ambien
What Is It Used For?
Zolpidem is commonly used to treat sleep disorders such as trouble
falling asleep, waking up many times during the night, or waking
up too early in the morning. Zolpidem is for short-term use only--usually
7 to 10 days. Zolpidem may also be used for purposes other than
those listed here.
How Is It Used?
Take zolpidem exactly as directed by your doctor. Take each dose
with a full glass of water just before bed time. It will make
you drowsy, and you could fall and hurt yourself if you take your
dose too long before you are ready for sleep. Do not take more
of this medication than is prescribed for you. Do not stop taking
zolpidem suddenly if you have been taking it for several weeks.
Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms and make you uncomfortable.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Stop taking zolpidem and seek emergency medical attention if you
experience: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing
of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; hives);
or hallucinations, abnormal behavior, or severe confusion. Continue
to take zolpidem and talk to your doctor if you experience headache,
drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
or constipation; depression; muscle aches or pains; vivid or abnormal
dreams; or amnesia (memory loss) after a dose. Zolpidem is habit
forming. Stopping this medication suddenly can cause withdrawal
effects if you have taken it continuously for several weeks. Talk
to your doctor about the safe use of this medication. Side effects
other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor
about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.
Is It Safe?
Tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease prior to taking
lansoprazole. You may not be able to take lansoprazole, or you
may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
Do not take lansoprazole without first talking to your doctor
if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Zolpidem may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness,
including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, other sedatives
(used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and
muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you
are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with zolpidem.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription
or over the counter medicines.
What If I Miss A Dose?
If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose. Instead, skip
the missed dose and start again with your usual dosing schedule.
How Should It Be Stored?
Store it at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other
hazardous activities. Zolpidem will cause drowsiness and may cause
dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these
activities. Zolpidem should be taken just before bedtime but you
may experience some carryover effects the next day. Do not drink
alcohol while taking zolpidem. Do not share zolpidem with others
for whom it was not prescribed, since they may have a problem
that is not effectively treated by this drug.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
