Ambien, the brand name of the medication zolpidem, is a sedative used to treat insomnia. It is available as an extended-release tablet called Ambien CR. The first layer of the tablet dissolves fast and helps people fall asleep, while the second layer takes much longer to dissolve and helps people stay asleep. Those interested in Ambien should talk to a doctor about the risks and benefits before taking the medication.
Taking Ambien CR
Since Ambien CR causes sleepiness, individuals should avoid taking the medication unless they have a full 7 to 8 hours to dedicate to sleeping. Although taking Ambien CR with a glass of water is useful, those who take the medication with food or shortly after a meal, may find it takes longer to fall asleep. Chewing or breaking an Ambien CR tablet may release too much of the medication at once, so it is best to swallow the entire tablet whole.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Ambien CR include forgetfulness, amnesia, lack of coordination, dizziness, weakness, daytime drowsiness, abnormal dreams, nausea, constipation, blurred vision, muscle pain, headache, stuffy nose or sore throat. Serious side effects include aggression, anxiety, hallucination, confusion, depression, decreased inhibitions, unusual thoughts or behavior, restlessness and thoughts of self-harm. Although these serious side effects are rare, people experiencing them should stop using the medication and call a doctor immediately.
Considerations
Some people who have used this medication reported driving, eating, making phone calls, or engaging in other activities without having any memory of the activity the next day, reports the FDA medication guide for Ambien CR. People who experience this should refrain from taking Ambien CR, and talk to a doctor about alternative treatment options for their sleep problems, suggests Drugs.com.
Overdose
When taken with other medications that cause drowsiness, taking too much Ambien CR can be fatal. Symptoms of an Ambien CR overdose include confusion, sleepiness, shallow breathing, lightheadedness, fainting or a coma. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms occur.
Drug Interactions
People who take other medications that cause sleepiness or drowsiness may need a lower dose of Ambien CR. These medications include cold medicine, pain relievers, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications. In particular, the medications chlorpromazine, itraconazole, ketoconazole, rifampin, imipramine or sertraline can interact negatively with Ambien CR. People should discuss all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements they are taking with a doctor or pharmacist before taking Ambien CR. In addition, alcohol should be avoided while taking Ambien CR.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Ambien CR is listed as FDA pregnancy category C, which means it is unclear whether the medication harms unborn babies. This medication also may pass into the breast milk and harm a nursing baby, so women who plan to breastfeed while taking Ambien CR should consult a doctor for advice.
Warning
Although people should only take this medication for short-term use, the FDA Ambien CR medication safety guide warns that Ambien CR can be habit-forming. Sharing this medication with others or neglecting to keep the medication in a secure place can be dangerous. The only people who should take this medication are those who have obtained a prescription from a doctor.
