Zolpidem tartrate, marketed as Ambien tablets, Ambien CR tablets and Zolpimist oral spray, first received FDA approval in 1992. Additionally, multiple generic manufacturers now market immediate release zolpidem tartrate tablets. Zolpidem alleviates insomnia a condition where patients struggle to fall asleep or have difficulty staying asleep. While patients experience benefits from zolpidem, many commonly report side effects.
Sleepwalking and More
There are reports of somnambulism, or sleepwalking, associated with zolpidem. According to the manufacturer Sanofi-Aventis, patients may get out of bed and complete activities without any awareness of their actions. These activities have included walking, eating, sexual intercourse and driving. The likelihood of having this type episode increased with alcohol consumption.
Drowsiness
Consumers observe drowsiness, also known as somnolence, after taking zolpidem. Even into the next day, patients report feeling "drugged". Only take zolpidem immediately prior to going to bed. Patients should take a dose only if they are not required to active for at least at least 7 to 8 hours
Dizziness
Dizziness was reported as a side effect as well. This is important to note due to a possible hindrance in ability to operate machinery or a vehicle. Alcohol has an additive effect and can exacerbate the dizziness. Thus the manufacturer recommends that patients do not mix zolpidem with alcohol.
Anxiety
The manufacturer Sanofi-Aventis observed a significant number of patients experiencing anxiety while taking the Ambien CR product. In the shorter term three week trials this occurred in 2 to 3 percent of the trial participants taking Ambien CR. However, in a longer six-month trial, anxiety was reported by 6.3 percent of the Ambien CR patients. Consumers should discuss this risk with their prescriber prior to starting the product.
Dependence
The manufacturers of zolpidem warn that patients may acquire a habit of taking the product. Additionally, in 2007, researchers in France documented case reports of consumers developing a tolerance and dependence on zolpidem. The product is approved for short term relief of insomnia typically for 7 to 10 days. Patients should take the medication for the shortest amount of time possible and only as prescribed. Any underlying causes of insomnia should be addressed as well.
References
- FDA: Ambien Medication Guide
- Sanofi-Aventis: Prescribing Information
- "Evidence of zolpidem abuse and dependence:results of the French Centre for Evaluation and Information on Pharmacodependence (CEIP) network survey"; Victorri-Vigneau C, British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, August 2007, 64(2):198-209
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