Ambien (zolpidem) is a prescription sleep aid indicated for short-term treatment of patients who suffer from insomnia, a sleeping disorder. If you are concerned about whether there are any side effects to taking the Ambien sleeping pill, speak with your doctor for additional support and guidance.
Drowsiness
The most common side effect associated with Ambien use is drowsiness, according to Drugs, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. This medication is intended to help patients with insomnia fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. In certain patients, feelings of fatigue and tiredness may continue even after a patient has had a full night's sleep. Daytime drowsiness can affect your productivity at work or school and may make it difficult for you to remain alert and focused during your usual daily activities. Ambien should only be taken immediately before you intend to fall asleep to prevent complications from becoming drowsy while driving or participating in potentially hazardous activities. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe side effects, such as memory loss, anxiety or depression.
Dizziness
During treatment with Ambien, you can experience episodes of dizziness as a side effect. In clinical trials for this medication, approximately 5 percent of patients taking up to 10mg of Ambien for 28 to 35 nights reported experiencing dizziness, according to health officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Dizziness can cause you to become unstable when you walk and may increase your risk of sustaining an injury from tripping or falling. If you experience severe or persistent dizziness, fainting, loss of consciousness or decreased motor coordination while taking Ambien, contact your doctor.
Diarrhea and Stomach Upset
Some patients experience diarrhea as a side effect to Ambien sleeping pills, according to Medline Plus, an online medical resource provided by the National Institutes of Health. Diarrhea can occur in conjunction with abdominal gas, pain or cramping, and may contribute to additional stomach-related side effects, including nausea, heartburn or changes in your appetite.
Drugged Feeling
During clinical trials, an estimated 3 percent of patients taking 10 mg of Ambien for 28 to 35 nights reported experiencing a drugged feeling during treatment, explains the FDA. Symptoms associated with a drugged feeling can include sluggishness, headache, confusion, hallucinations, memory problems or mental and mood changes. Seek emergency medical care if you experience unusual thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Nasal or Throat Irritation
Nasal or throat irritation can occur as side effects of Ambien treatment, warns Drugs. You can develop sensations of dryness within your mouth, which can lead to a sore or irritated throat. Nasal irritation may cause you to experience an itchy or runny nose. Difficulty swallowing or breathing problems while taking Ambien can be indicative of a severe reaction to this medication and may require additional medical consultation.
Withdrawal Symptoms
The FDA warns that you can experience withdrawal symptoms as a side effect if you abruptly stop taking this medication. Withdrawal symptoms can arise within 48 hours after taking your last dose of Ambien and may include insomnia, vomiting, tremors, muscle cramps, convulsions, dizziness, sweating, headache or anxiety. These symptoms can persist for several days but typically subside once the medication has been fully excreted from your body.
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