If you are having trouble sleeping, you may be considering taking sleeping pills. Not getting a good night's sleep can leave you fatigued, and you may have difficulty concentrating the next day. This can interfere with work and family obligations. However, sleeping pills can also have side effects. Before deciding to take a product like Ambien or Ambien CR (a newer version of Ambien), it is important to understand how it will affect you.
Deeper and Longer Sleep
According to the manufacturers, Ambien CR is formulated to release its ingredients in two doses. One layer of the pill is designed to be absorbed quickly by your body so you fall asleep right away. The other layer is designed to be dissolved more slowly so the medication does not wear off and you stay asleep. They claim that this medication can last for up to seven hours. It works by changing the levels of chemicals in your brain that are involved in regulating sleep. Ambien CR is considered a non-narcotic; however, there is still a risk of dependency. It is intended to only be taken on a short-term basis for up to two weeks.
Side Effects
While taking this medication, you may experience headaches or still feel drowsy the next day. You may also have emotional outbursts, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, dry mouth, panic attacks and trouble sleeping. While rare, other complications can include a worsening of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, aggressive behavior and memory loss. Call your physician if you have signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, swelling or trouble breathing.
Additional Effects
The FDA states that there have been cases where sleep walking, talking, preparing food and sleep driving occurred while on Ambien CR. These incidents usually occurred without the patient's knowledge. In most cases, these effects were enhanced if alcohol was consumed while taking this medication, or when it was taken in conjunction with certain medications.
