Ambien--zolpidem tartrate--is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for the short-term treatment of insomnia in adults, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It promotes relaxation by affecting chemicals in the brain, helping the patient to fall asleep. Ambien is a federally controlled substance because it can be abused or cause dependence. It is available in tablet form as generic zolpidem tartrate, Ambien and Ambien CR--an extended release compound.
Impaired Thinking and Reactions
Patients may still feel drowsy the day after taking Ambien, reports the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, especially if they are awakened before the effects of the medication have worn off. Elderly patients are at risk for falling, as the sedative effects may be stronger in that population.
Ambien can cause amnesia--forgetfulness or memory loss. Patients have reported engaging in activities--walking, driving, eating, cooking, having sex or making phone calls--while asleep and later having no memory of the activity. This side effect should be reported to the health care provider so that another treatment may be considered.
Abnormal Thoughts and Behavior
Patients should stop using Ambien and call the doctor, warns the FDA, if they experience serious side effects related to their thoughts and behavior. Abnormal thoughts may include a worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, agitation, confusion or loss of personality. Changes in behavior that should be reported include risk-taking behavior without fear of danger, loss of inhibitions or aggressive behavior.
Allergic Reactions
The FDA reports that Ambien may cause a severe and life-threatening reaction in patients who are allergic to any of the components. Emergency help may prove necessary if any signs of an allergic reaction occur, including hives; difficulty breathing; or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
Less Serious Side Effects
Less serious side effects of Ambien, according to the FDA, include dizziness, weakness, feeling "drugged" or light-headed, lack of coordination, vivid or abnormal dreams, nausea, constipation, stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, urinary tract infection or blurred vision.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Ambien can become habit-forming. After stopping the medication, the patient may experience short-term symptoms such as trouble sleeping, nausea, flushing, lightheadedness, uncontrolled crying, vomiting, stomach cramps, panic attack, nervousness, and stomach pain, reports Drugs.com.
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