Medications and Drugs

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GENERIC NAME: ZOLPIDEM - ORAL (ZOHL-pee-dem)

BRAND NAME(S): Ambien

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat patients with trouble sleeping (insomnia). It helps you fall asleep faster and sleep longer through the night. Zolpidem is a sedative/hypnotic which acts on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect. It works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical (gamma-aminobutyric acid - GABA) in the body . This medication is usually limited to short-term treatment periods of 1-2 weeks or less.

HOW TO USE: Since this medication takes effect quickly, take it by mouth immediately before bedtime on an empty stomach, or as directed by your doctor. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. If this drug is used for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop using it without your doctor's approval. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well. You may experience trouble sleeping the first few nights after you stop taking this medication. This is called rebound insomnia and it is normal. It will usually go away after 1-2 nights. If this effect continues, contact your doctor. Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Daytime drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, constipation, diarrhea, and dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Although unlikely, this drug can infrequently cause memory loss. To avoid this effect, do not take a dose of this drug unless you have time for a full night's sleep that lasts at least 7-8 hours. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fast/pounding heartbeat, unusual tiredness, new or worsening depression (rarely including thoughts of suicide), mental/mood changes, unsteadiness. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: chest pain. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.