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Ambien

Pronunciation: am-bee-uhn
Generic Name: Zolpidem
Brand Names: Ambien, Ambien CR
The Class of Drug: Miscellaneous anxiolytics, anxiolytics, hypnotics, and sedatives

What is Ambien?

Ambien acts as a mild sedative, often referred to as a hypnotic. Ambien (zolpidem) alters the chemical balance in the brain, which could be imbalanced in those with sleep disorders (insomnia).

The drug Ambien is used to treat the signs and symptoms of insomnia.The tablet with immediate release can help you fall asleep the moment you get to bed. The extended-release version of Ambien CR includes one layer that dissolves quickly, allowing you to fall asleep, and a third layer that disintegrates slowly to allow you to sleep.

Your doctor will help you determine which type of Ambien is the best choice for you.

Warnings

Ambien could trigger an extreme allergic reaction. Stop taking this medication and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction: itching, breathing difficulties, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.

Don't share Ambien with anyone else, even if they share similar symptoms to yours. The doses that are recommended for zolpidem differ for females and males. This medication is not suitable for use by children. Incorrect use of this drug can cause dangerous adverse consequences.

Ambien may affect your ability to think or react. It is possible to experience sleepiness the next day after taking this medication, particularly if you are taking the extended-release tablet or if you're female. You should wait at least 4 hours or until you're completely awake before doing any activity that demands you be alert and awake.

Do not use Ambien in higher doses or for a longer duration than what is prescribed.You should not use zolpidem if you have consumed alcohol throughout the day or before going to bed.

Before You Take This Drug

Some users of Ambien have been involved in activities like eating, driving, taking a walk, making phone calls, or even having sex, and then forgotten about the event. If this is the case for you, then stop using this medication and speak with your physician about a different option for treating your insomnia.

It is not recommended to use Ambien if you are allergic to Zolpidem. The tablets could contain lactose. Be cautious if you are allergic to lactose.Ambien is not a prescription drug for use by anyone less than 18 years old.

To ensure this medication is suitable for you, inform your physician if you've previously had:

  • Depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts

  • Alcohol or drug addiction;

  • Respiratory problems or lung diseases;

  • Sleep apnea (breathing stops while sleeping) (also known as

  • Kidney or liver disease

Consuming Ambien during the final 3 months of pregnancy can cause breathing difficulties or drowsiness in your infant.

While taking this medicine, breastfeeding may not be safe.Consult your physician about any potential risks.

How to Take Ambien?

Consume Ambien exactly as directed by your physician. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not take this medication in large doses or for longer than the time prescribed.

The recommended dosages for zolpidem vary for women and men, and it is not suitable for use in children.Check all the information about your patient, including medication guides and instruction sheets you are given. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about any additional concerns.

Zolpidem can be a habit-forming drug. The misuse of the drug can lead to dependence, overdose, or even death. It is illegal to sell or give away this drug.

Don't give this medication to another person, even if they suffer from similar symptoms to yours. The doses recommended for Ambien differ for women and men. This medication is not suitable for use by children. The misuse of this medication could result in serious adverse effects.Don't take this medicine if you do not get a full 7 to 8 hours of sleep before you can resume your activity.

Ambien is a short-term medication. Inform your physician if your insomnia symptoms don't improve or become worse after taking the medication for 7 to 10 consecutive nights. Don't take this medication for more than 5 or 4 weeks without consulting your physician.

Don't stop taking Ambien abruptly after long-term usage, or you may experience uncomfortable withdrawal effects. Discuss with your physician how you can prevent withdrawal symptoms after you stop taking the medication.

The symptoms of insomnia can also occur after quitting Ambien, and they could be more severe than they were before. Contact your physician if you are experiencing worsening insomnia the first few days after you have stopped taking the drug.

Don't crush, chew, or break Ambien CR tablets. Inhale the tablet completely.

Keep away from heat and moisture, and at room temperature. Don't freeze.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose?

Because Ambien is only taken in the evening if it is needed, you're not likely to skip a dose.

What Happens If I Overdose?

For medical emergencies, seek emergency treatment or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. A zolpidem overdose could be fatal, particularly when taken in combination with other medicines that may induce drowsiness.

Overdose symptoms can include insomnia and confusion, as well as fainting, feeling lightheaded, or fainting. It could also be a sign of a coma.

What Should be Avoided?

Do not take Ambien when traveling, for example, if you want to rest on the plane. You could wake up after your effects from the drug have waned. Amnesia (forgetfulness) can be more likely to occur in the event that you do not receive the full 7 to 8 hours of sleep following taking Ambien.

Avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities until you are aware of the effects of zolpidem. It is possible to be sleepy in the morning following the use of Ambien, and your reaction may be affected. Be sure to wait until you're completely awake before driving, operating machinery, flying an aircraft, or performing any other activity that requires you to be alert and awake.

Don't take this medication when you've had a drink throughout the day or before going to bed.

Side Effects Of Ambien

Zolpidem can cause an extreme allergy. Stop taking Ambien and seek emergency medical assistance when you exhibit symptoms warning signs of an allergic reaction, such as an allergic reaction to hives,breathing or swallowing challenges breathing or swallowing challenges

Inform your doctor about any new or deteriorating symptoms, including anxiety, depression, anxiety, aggression, anger, strange thoughts, hallucinations, memory issues, or changes in your personality. taking risks, a decrease in inhibitions without anxiety about risk, or thoughts of suicide or harming yourself.

Stop taking this medicine and consult your physician immediately. If you suffer from:

  • Chest pain, a fast and unsteady heartbeat,

    and a sensation of shortness of breath;

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing difficulty breathing or swallowing

  • Feeling like you might pass out.

The sedative effects of Ambien are more likely to be strongest in older adults.Drowsiness or excessive drowsiness may cause accidents, falls, or serious injuries.

Common Ambien side effects can include:

  • Dizziness, drowsiness during the day, fatigue, and the sensation that you are "drugged" or light-headed;

  • Fatigue, lack of coordination

  • Dry mouth, stuffy nose, or irritation to the throat;

  • Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, upset sto

    mach

    , or

  • Headache and muscle pain.

This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and others could happen. Contact your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Interaction With Other Drugs

Utilizing Ambien along with other medications that cause you to become drowsy could cause more of this. Consult your physician before taking an opioid drug, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or a medication to treat anxiety as well as seizures.

Numerous drugs can be incompatible with zolpidem, making it less effective or worsening the risk of adverse effects.Prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements are included. The interactions of all drugs are not mentioned here. Discuss with your physician your current medications as well as any new medications you are about to start or stop taking.

 

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