Ambien, which goes by the generic name zolpidem, is a drug available as a tablet and extended release tablet. It is a nonbenzodiazepine sedative hypnotic administered only by prescription. Ambien is used for the treatment of insomnia by reducing the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. It also increases total sleep time and decreases awakenings during the night. The medication is effective but might increase the risk of suicide in some patients.
Proper Use
Ambien should be used for the indication approved by the Food and Drug Administration, which for the short-term treatment of insomnia. The Drug Information Handbook explains that the medication should be used only after a proper evaluation of the causes of sleep disturbance. If the insomnia does not resolve after seven to 10 days after starting the drug, it might indicate psychiatric or medical illness. Patients should tell a physician if they don't show improvements in sleeping patterns.
Changes in Behavior and Thinking
Hypnotics such as Ambien can cause changes in behavior and promote abnormal thinking. The patient might experience symptoms such as aggressiveness, agitation, bizarre behavior, depression and depersonalization, reports Drugs.com. These adverse reactions occur in less than one percent of patients but may be life-threatening and can potentially lead to suicidal thoughts or actions. The medication should be used cautiously in elderly patients because they are unable to release the drug from the body as quickly because of their age. The patient should report the occurrence of these side effects to a physician immediately. To avoid the appearance of these effects, the patient should be given the lowest possible dose.
Depression
Ambien should be used with caution in patients who have depression. According to RxList.com, depressed patients have reported a worsening of the symptoms of depression, which includes suicidal thoughts and actions. The patient must inform the physician of his entire medical history to avoid a dangerous effect such as this one.
Alcohol Use
Patients who are receiving treatment with Ambien should not consume alcohol. Alcohol can increase the effects of Ambien on the body and worsen the effects on thoughts and behavior. The medication should be used with caution in patients who have a history of alcohol abuse.
SSRIs
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, such as citalopram, escitalopram and fluoxetine, might increase the effects of Ambien, explains the "Drug Information Handbook." This increases the risk of developing abnormal thoughts and suicidal behavior. The patient should inform the physician of all current medications to avoid drug interactions.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- Drugs.com: Ambien Side Effects
- RxList: Ambien
