Ambien

Ambien (zolpidem) is a hypnotic and sedative medication used to relieve insomnia and helping people to fall and stay asleep when they need rest. You must never take this medication if you have been allergic to its active ingredient – zolpidem, as a severe allergic reaction is possible. Get emergency medical assistance if you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of your lips, throat and tongue, and sometimes rash. Ambien is intended to provide you with 7-8 hour of sleep. Make sure you plan it ahead and do not get up during this time. If you get up anyway you can experience memory problems and feel drowsy during the day. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding taking Ambien is probably not for you, unless the benefits outweigh potential risks for the health of your baby. Ambien may have stronger effects on older people, resulting in accidental falling and injuries. Elderly patients should be especially careful when taking Ambien and exercise special caution to avoid falling. In most cases Ambien is taken as needed, so you may not be on a dosing schedule. Before you start taking Ambien tell your doctor if you have been taking or are still taking rifampin, chlorpromazine, itraconazole, ketoconazole, or any antidepressants.

Drowsiness, lack of coordination, muscle pain, nausea, sore throat, headache, forgetfulness, dizziness, constipation, and stuffy nose are some of the most commonly reported side effects of Ambien. If you have shallow breathing, lightheadedness, coma, fainting, sleepiness and confusion make sure you seek emergency medical assistance as these are some of the symptoms of Ambien overdose. Withdrawal symptoms are possible if you decide to stop the treatment suddenly without previously discussing it with your health care provider. The following symptoms are possible: vomiting, seizure, stomach pain, anxiety, tremors, nausea, sweating, panic, and muscle cramps. Drinking alcohol is not recommended as it is likely to intensify some of the side effects of Ambien you may experience, especially drowsiness. In some people Ambien can cause addiction, which is why this medicine is given to people with no prior history of drug addictions. Before you start the treatment make sure you mention to your doctor the fact of ever being diagnosed with sleep apnea, mental illness, history of drug or alcohol addiction, myasthenia gravis, kidney disease, liver disease, suicidal thoughts, history of depression, and lung disease.