Ambien CR (controlled release) is a prescription sleep aid manufactured by Sanofi Aventis. It is made with two layers, one that induces sleep quickly and a second layer that slowly dissolves to help patients stay asleep. Ambien CR is used to treat chronic insomnia and has been in use since October 2005; its active ingredient is zolpidem tartrate. While anyone taking sleeping pills should first consider the side effects of the drug, the elderly should take additional care to made sure they could withstand any adverse reactions. The recommended dosage for the elderly and disabled is 6.25 milligrams (mg).
Motor Impairments
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) report that elderly patients taking 6.25 mg of Ambien CR, about half the recommended dose for healthy adults, are subject to bouts of impaired motor functions. They may have trouble standing or walking the following day after taking the drug.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
NIH researchers reported that studies showed a similar pattern of dizziness between seniors taking 6.25 milligrams of Abrien CR and younger adults taking 12.5 milligrams. Dizziness while lying down and when getting up in the morning was reported in 8 percent of those tested. Headaches are a common side effect of Ambien CR in elderly patients who took 6.25-milligram doses. Some patients experience heart palpitations, impaired vision and upper respiratory infections. Somnolence, or sleepiness during the day also is a documented side effect that may add to the fatigue and weariness often associated with aging.
Cognitive Side Effects
Repeated exposure to Ambien also can put seniors at risk for impaired cognitive performance. They may have trouble with memory, speech or other mental functions. For seniors who suffer from depression, Ambien CR can deepen the sadness and increase the depression. They may begin to have suicidal thoughts.
Other behaviors that users of the medication can be at risk for, especially if they already have emotional or mental issues common in elderly patients, include aggravation and increasingly aggressive behavior. If seniors begin exhibiting any other abnormal behaviors they typically do not engage in, that could be a sign that they cannot tolerate the sleeping aid.
Other Side Effects
Other side effects that were reported during clinical trials of Ambien CR included frequent dry mouth, back pain and nausea. Some patients experience diarrhea and hiccupping. Patients taking Ambien CR have reported symptoms of, abnormal thirst and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
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