Ambien (zolpidem or zolpidem tartrate) is a prescription sleep aid indicated for the treatment of insomnia in adults. A 2008 study performed by in the United States by Consumer Health Sciences found that approximately 37 percent of adults reported insomnia or difficulties sleeping sometime within the previous 12 months. Ambien acts to help alleviate insomnia symptoms by helping patients fall asleep quickly and stay asleep throughout the night. While prescribed levels of Ambien are generally safe for patients, it is important to be aware of the signs of an Ambien overdose.
Cognitive Dysfunction
An overdose of Ambien can lead to extreme sleepiness or confusion in some patients. Loss of consciousness and fainting have been reported in some cases of Ambien overdose. Coma---a condition in which a person experiences prolonged unconsciousness---may also occur if you take an overdose of Ambien. If you believe you are experiencing any signs of Ambien overdose, seek immediate medical care for further treatment.
Heartbeat Irregularities
If you take an overdose of Ambien, you may develop signs of cardiovascular complications, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Such complications may include heartbeat irregularities, such as a decrease in heart rate. A slow heart rate may also lead to fainting or loss of consciousness because the brain is not provided with an adequate supply of blood. If you experience heart beat irregularities while taking Ambien, seek medical care immediately, as cardiovascular complications may be a sign of an Ambien overdose.
Slowed Breathing
Ambien overdose may lead to respiratory complications in certain people. Breathing difficulties, such as shallow breathing, may occur if you take an overdose of Ambien. Additional symptoms, such as lightheadedness or fainting, may also occur as a result of respiratory complications. Such symptoms may occur due to decreased levels of oxygen in the blood, which can inhibit the normal function of the brain and other bodily tissues. If you develop respiratory complications while taking Ambien, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical care, as breathing problems may be a sign of Ambien overdose.
Death
In some cases, Ambien overdose may lead to death. Extremely high levels of Ambien within the body may lead to significant complications such as the cessation of the heart beat or breathing. Such complications are more likely to occur if additional substances such as alcohol or other medications are taken in addition to an overdose of Ambien. If you have taken Ambien with other substances or medication, seek emergency medical care to prevent the occurrence of life-threatening medical complications.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Ambien Prescribling Label
- "Consumer Health Sciences"; The Insomnia/Sleep Difficulties Market--Key Results; Consumer Health Sciences; June 2008
- Ambien CR Product Site: Overdose
