Ambien, known generically as zolpidem, is classified as a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic used to treat difficulty sleeping, according to the drug’s manufacturer, Sanofi-Aventis U.S. It is indicated for short-term treatment. Difficulty sleeping that persists for more than a week to 10 days may be caused by a physical or psychiatric problem that could become apparent during Ambien use. Although Ambien can be beneficial, it also has potentially serious side effects.
Sleep Driving and Other Complex Behavior
According to Sanofi-Aventis U.S., Ambien can cause people to get out of bed and--while still asleep--drive a car, prepare food, have sex and make phone calls. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration calls these occurrences “complex behaviors.” People do not usually remember these occurrences. Sleep-driving is very dangerous and has resulted in accidents and arrests, according an article from March 8, 2006 on NYTimes.com. These drivers have reportedly driven in the wrong direction, hit light poles and parked vehicles and acted oblivious to responding police officers. The risk of complex behaviors increases if Ambien is taken with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants, warns Sanofi-Aventis U.S.
Amnesia
Ambien can cause amnesia that lasts until its effects wear off, and it should only be taken when a person can sleep without interruption for seven to eight hours. Amnesia becomes problematic when sleep is disrupted, such as during air travel, and is called "traveler's amnesia." Events after being awakened, but before Ambien wears off, may not be remembered.
Physical Dependence
When used for more than two weeks, Ambien can cause physical dependence, explains Sanofi-Aventis U.S. When the medication is stopped, distressing withdrawal effects can occur, including "rebound insomnia," or the inability to sleep. Abdominal cramps, vomiting, shaking, sweating and seizures are possible in more serious cases. People with a history of alcohol and drug addiction are more prone to Ambien dependence.
Psychiatric Side Effects
Ambien can cause unusual and strange thoughts and behavior. Symptoms can be extreme, and can include confusion, suicidal thoughts and actions, worsening of depression, seeing and hearing things that are not there and inappropriate excitement and nervousness, according to MayoClinic.com. Unusually outgoing behavior and aggression can also occur. These symptoms must be reported to a doctor immediately.
Allergic Reaction
According to Sanofi-Aventis U.S., in rare cases Ambien caused severe allergic reactions, called anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions, requiring emergency room care. Symptoms of these reactions include difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue and throat and nausea and vomiting. Swelling of the throat can block the airway and cause death, explains Sanofi-Aventis U.S. Emergency medical help is required.
