Ambien (Zolpidem) Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, Overdose, Interactions

What Is Ambien?

Ambien (zolpidem) is a sedative/hypnotic used for treating insomnia. Ambien is available in generic form.

What Are Side Effects of Ambien?

Common side effects of Ambien (zolpidem) include:

  • Daytime drowsiness,
  • Dizziness,
  • Weakness,
  • Lightheadedness,
  • "Drugged" feeling,
  • Tiredness,
  • Loss of coordination,
  • Stuffy nose,
  • Nasal irritation,
  • Dry mouth,
  • Sore throat,
  • Nausea,
  • Constipation,
  • Diarrhea,
  • Stomach upset,
  • Headache,
  • Muscle pain,
  • Confusion,
  • Insomnia,
  • Euphoria,
  • Ataxia (balance problems), and
  • Visual changes.

Tell your doctor if you have unlikely but serious side effects of Ambien including:

  • memory loss,
  • mental/mood/behavior changes such as:
    • new or worsening depression,
    • abnormal thoughts,
    • thoughts of suicide,
    • hallucinations,
    • confusion,
    • agitation,
    • aggressive behavior, or
    • anxiety

Dosage for Ambien

The recommended adult dose of Ambien is 10 mg as conventional tablets or spray or 12.5 mg as extended-release tablets.

What Drugs, Substances, or Supplements Interact with Ambien?

Ambien may interact with:

  • alcohol,
  • other medicines that make you sleepy or slow your breathing such as:
    • cold medicines,
    • pain medications,
    • muscle relaxants, and
    • medicines for depression, anxiety, or seizures
  • chlorpromazine,
  • itraconazole,
  • ketoconazole,
  • rifampin, or
  • antidepressants

Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

Ambien During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before using Ambien; it is unknown how it will affect a fetus. Ambien passes into breast milk and may have adverse effects on a nursing baby. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. Ambien can cause withdrawal symptoms (muscle cramps, sweats, shaking, and seizures).

Additional Information

Our Ambien (zolpidem) Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication.

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