Ambien

Classification: Sleep Aid (Hypnotic)
Other Names: Zolpidem Stilnox
Used to treat: Insomnia (Short-term treatment)

(These are common indications for this medication. There may be additional conditions not listed here. Check with your doctor if you have questions about your specific condition).

General Directions for Taking Medication:

Take only as directed.
Take medicine with a tall glass of water. DO NOT crush tablet.
For faster results, take this medication on an empty stomach (about 2 hours after a meal).
Stop smoking. Nicotine may increase your insomnia (difficulty falling asleep).
See your doctor regularly to monitor the effectiveness of this medication.

Contraindications:

Allergies - Hypersensitivity to this medication or its components
Children less than 18 years old

Use with caution in:

Pregnancy and Breast Feeding - May not be safe for your baby. Talk to your doctor about risks and benefits.
Patients with kidney, liver or lung disorders - May need reduced dose to limit side effects.
Elderly patients - May need reduced dose to limit side effects.
Patients with a depressive illness, suicidal thoughts or a history of alcohol and drug dependency

Common Side Effects:

May occur during the first few days after beginning therapy, but usually resolve:

Daytime drowsiness; dizziness and lightheadedness (especially upon arising from a sitting or lying position); headaches; nausea, vomiting, upset stomach; or diarrhea; dry mouth; or insomnia for a few days after stopping this medication

Serious Side Effects:

Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

Fever, behavioral changes, mental confusion, loss of consciousness, or depression
Allergic reaction symptoms such as a red skin rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat; wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty breathing

Interactions:

Drug - There are many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, which will alter the action of this medication. Some include sedatives, antidepressants, narcotics, anti-seizure medications, and cold remedies with antihistamines.
It is extremely important that you consult with your doctor about dosing schedules if you take a variety of medications along with this medication. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.
Food - Decreases the rate of absorption of this medication.

Warnings:

Overdose - Can lead to respiratory depression, coma and eventually death.
Avoid taking more than prescribed because this medication may become habit-forming. Generally prescribed for only 7-10 days.
If taken for more than 2 weeks, abrupt withdrawal may lead to lightheadedness, nausea and vomiting, panic attack, uncontrollable crying, skin flushing and anxiety.
DO NOT drive or operate machinery due to drowsiness side effects.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. May increase drowsiness and decrease alertness.
Keep this medication and all others out of reach of children and pets.

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