Zolpidem (Systemic)
Brand Names : Ambien
Precautions While Using This MedicineIf you
think you need to take zolpidem for more than 7 to 10 days, be sure to discuss
it with your doctor. Insomnia that lasts longer than this may be a sign of
another medical problem.
This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants
(medicines that slow down the nervous system, possibly causing drowsiness).
Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever,
other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine;
prescription pain medicine or narcotics; barbiturates; medicine for seizures;
muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your doctor before taking any of the above while
you are using this medicine
.
This medicine may cause some people, especially older persons, to become
drowsy, dizzy, lightheaded, clumsy or unsteady, or less alert than they are
normally. Even though zolpidem is taken at bedtime, it may cause some people
to feel drowsy or less alert on arising. Also, this medicine may cause double
vision or other vision problems. Make sure you know how
you react to zolpidem before you drive, use machines, or do anything else
that could be dangerous if you are dizzy, or are not alert or able to see
well
.
If you develop any unusual and strange thoughts or behavior while you are
taking zolpidem, be sure to discuss it with your doctor. Some changes that
have occurred in people taking this medicine are like those seen in people
who drink alcohol and then act in a manner that is not normal. Other changes
may be more unusual and extreme, such as confusion, worsening of depression
hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there), suicidal
thoughts, and unusual excitement, nervousness, or irritability.
If you will be taking zolpidem for a long time, do not stop taking it without
first checking with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to reduce gradually
the amount you are taking before stopping completely. Stopping this medicine
suddenly may cause withdrawal side effects.
After taking zolpidem for insomnia, you may have difficulty sleeping (rebound
insomnia) for the first few nights after you stop taking it.
If you think you or someone else may have taken an
overdose of this medicine, get emergency help at once
. Taking an overdose
of zolpidem or taking alcohol or other CNS depressants with zolpidem may lead
to breathing problems and unconsciousness. Some signs of an overdose are severe
drowsiness, severe nausea or vomiting, staggering, and troubled breathing.
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