Ambien, also known as zolpidem, is a sedative-hypnotic approved for short-term treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders. Available both in regular tablets and as an extended release formulation called Ambien CR, the drug acts directly on the brain to promote relaxation and a sound night's sleep. An Ambien overdose can cause severe drowsiness, coma, low blood pressure, respiratory compromise and even death, according to Rx List.
identification
According to Sanofi-aventis, the manufacturer of Ambien and Ambien CR, a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist called flumazenil can reverse the adverse effects of zolpidem in people who have overdosed. Also known as Romazicon, flumazenil is given intravenously to block Ambien's effect at receptor sites within the brain, says Drugs.com.
Effects
As flumazenil reverses the sedative and hypnotic effects of zolpidem, it helps stabilize blood pressure, improves respiratory status and improves the degree of consciousness, says Drugs.com. Typically, flumazenil is part of a treatment regimen that also includes gastric lavage to wash excess Ambien from the stomach and intravenous fluids to dilute blood levels of zolpidem.
Adverse Effects
While flumazenil reverses some of the most severe adverse effects of Ambien overdose, it can cause problems of its own. According to Rx List, flumazenil may increase the risk of neurological symptoms such as convulsions and hyperexcitability. It's important to monitor individuals on flumazenil carefully for neurological changes, and to provide a safe environment in case seizures or dangerous behaviors develop.
Considerations
Flumazenil is more likely to cause convulsions in individuals who already have demonstrated either seizurelike activity or jerking movements of the arms and legs before the drug is given, says Drugs.com. The healthcare provider should weigh the benefits of flumazenil against the risks of neurological side effects before giving the drug.
Tip
People who overdose intentionally or accidentally frequently take more than one drug. Although flumazenil is recommended as an Ambien reversal medication, multiple drug ingestion may require a different drug reversal plan. Rx List recommends that providers contact the local poison control center for expert guidance in treating multidrug overdoses.
