What Is It
? Ambien ( Zolpidem ) is in a class of drugs called sedative / hypnotics or sleep medications. Ambien ( Zolpidem ) affects chemicals in your brain that may become unbalanced and
cause insomnia.
? Ambien ( Zolpidem ) induces sleep and causes relaxation. It is used to treat sleep disorders such as trouble falling asleep, waking up many times during the night, or waking up too early in the morning.
Ambien ( Zolpidem ) is for short-term use only--usually 7 to 10 days. Longer-term use must be monitored closely by a doctor.
? Ambien ( Zolpidem ) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
How To Use
Take Ambien ( Zolpidem ) exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
? Take each dose with a full glass of water.
? Take Ambien ( Zolpidem ) just before you go to bed. It will make you drowsy, and you could fall and hurt yourself if you take your dose too long before you are ready for sleep.
? Do not take more of this medication than is prescribed for you.
? Do not stop taking Ambien ( Zolpidem ) suddenly if you have been taking it for several weeks. Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms and make you uncomfortable. Talk to your doctor if you
need to stop treatment with Ambien ( Zolpidem ).
? Store Ambien ( Zolpidem ) at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Missed Dose
Since Ambien ( Zolpidem ) is usually taken only if you need it to help you sleep, missing a dose will not cause any problems. Take the missed dose only if you can be sure that you
will get 7 or 8 full hours of sleep after the dose. If you do not sleep for 7 or 8 full hours, you may experience carryover effects from Ambien ( Zolpidem ) after you wake up.
Over Dose
Seek emergency medical attention.
? Symptoms of a Ambien ( Zolpidem ) overdose may include sleepiness, confusion, di
Side Effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Ambien ( Zolpidem ) and seek emergency medical attention:
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; hives); or
hallucinations, abnormal behavior, or severe confusion.
? Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Ambien ( Zolpidem ) and talk to your doctor if you experience
headache, drowsiness, di
Precautions
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Ambien ( Zolpidem ) will cause drowsiness and may cause di
Drug Interactions
Ambien ( Zolpidem ) may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, other sedatives (used to treat insomnia),
pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.
? Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Ambien ( Zolpidem ). Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.