Zolpidem
(Ambien) may be habit-forming, even at regular doses. Misuse of sleep
medications like Ambien can cause addiction, overdose, or death.
Do not share this
medicine with someone else, even if they have the same symptoms. An improper or
accidental dose of this medicine can lead to death.
Never take Ambien if you do not have a proper 7 to 8
hours of sleep before being active again.
Sleep medicine like
Ambien is for short-term use only. Tell your doctor if there is no improvement
in your insomnia
symptoms or if they get worse after taking Ambien for 7 to 10 nights in a row.
Do not suddenly
stop using Ambien after long-term use, or you could face unpleasant withdrawal
symptoms. Take your doctor’s help to stop using this medicine safely to avoid
withdrawal symptoms.
Swallow the whole Ambien CR
pill rather than
crushing, chewing, or breaking it.
Store it away from
heat and moisture at room temperature. Do not freeze.
Avoid taking Ambien
while traveling. Amnesia (forgetfulness) could occur if you do not get a proper
7 to 8 hours of sound sleep after taking Ambien.
Avoid driving a
vehicle or performing any hazardous activity until you know this medicine’s
effect on you. There may be impairing your reactions, and you may feel sleepy
the following day after taking
Ambien.
Do not take this
medicine if you consume alcohol during the day or before going to bed.
Ambien may lead to
severe allergic reactions. Go for emergency medical help if you have signs of
an allergic response that may include trouble breathing, hives, swelling in
your face, throat, lips, or tongue.
Stop using the
medicine and promptly call the doctor if you have:
- Trouble
swallowing or breathing;
- Rapid
or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, feeling short of breath; or
- Feeling
like you might pass out
Common side effects
to Ambien may include:
- Loss
of coordination, tired feeling;
- Daytime
drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, feeling light-headed;
- Nausea,
diarrhoea, constipation, upset stomach;
- Dry
mouth, stuffy nose, nose or throat irritation; or
- Headache,
muscle pain
It is not a
complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Take your doctor’s
medical help regarding side effects. Report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
