Ambien is the brand name for zolipedem tartrate, a sedative-hypnotic often prescribed for sleep problems. Common side effects of taking Ambien include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, lightheadedness, headache, muscle pain, vivid or abnormal dreams, stuffy nose, sore throat or blurred vision. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the agency responsible for approving prescription medications and monitoring their safety, has issued warnings regarding Ambien and other sedative-hypnotics to ensure that patients and health care providers are aware of the potential for more serious side effects that can affect thinking and behavior.
History
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Ambien for use in the United States in 1992. In March 2007, the FDA asked product manufacturers of all sedative-hypnotic medications to use stronger language about potential risks on their product labeling. These risks included severe allergic reactions and complex sleep-related behaviors. The FDA also asked the manufacturers to notify health care providers about the new warnings and to develop patient medication guides to inform consumers about the risks.
Indications
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 fall asleep and stay asleep.
Types
Zolpidem tartrate is available as a tablet by prescription. There are three forms: generic zolpidem tartrate, Ambien and Ambien CR, an extended-release tablet. All forms are federally controlled substances because they can be abused or cause dependence.
Side Effects
Patients may still feel drowsy the day after taking Ambien, reports the FDA, 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. Report this side effect to the health care provider and ask for other treatment options.
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 to report 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 its components. Seek emergency help if any signs of an allergic reaction occur, including hives; difficulty breathing; or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
Precautions
Patients taking Ambien should not drink alcohol or take other medications that cause drowsiness. Take the medication immediately before getting into bed--not before--to avoid engaging in activities while asleep.
