DRUG INDEX
GENERIC NAME: zolpidem BRAND NAME: Ambien
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Zolpidem belongs to a class of medicines that effects the central nervous system, called sedative hypnotics. Zolpidem is closely related to a family of drugs called benzodiazepines. These drugs cause sedation, muscle relaxation, act as anti-convulsants (anti-seizure), and have anti-anxiety properties. Zolpidem has selectivity in that it has little of the muscle relaxant or anti-seizure effect and more of the sedative effect. Therefore, it is used as a medication for sleep .
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
PREPARATION: Tablets (5mg,10mg).
STORAGE: Zolpidem should be stored at room temperature in a tight container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Zolpidem is used as a sleeping pill to treat insomnia. It has been shown to put patients to sleep faster and keep them asleep longer. Sleeping pills generally are not prescribed for more than 10 days and are usually taken intermittently as needed to avoid problems with addiction, loss of effectiveness, and rebound phenomena.
DOSING: Zolpidem should be taken without food at bedtime to induce a rapid onset of sleep. Zolpidem is metabolized by the liver and dosages need to be decreased in patients with liver dysfunction (hepatitis). Lower doses should be used in the elderly because of their decreased ability to metabolize the medication.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Alcohol has an additive effect with zolpidem and the two should not be combined. Zolpidem should be used cautiously in patients with respiratory diseases because of its depressing effect on breathing. Zolpidem has few drug interactions with other medicines. However, caution should be used when combining it with other sedative drugs. Zolpidem used at higher dosages can cause withdrawal symptoms ( muscle cramps , sweats, shaking, and seizures) when the drug is abruptly discontinued. Zolpidem can cause abnormal behavior with confusion and paradoxical insomnia and should be discontinued if these symptoms appear.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects of Zolpidem are drowsiness, dizziness , and a "drugged" feeling, which probably reflect the action of the drug. Other side effects include confusion, insomnia, euphoria, ataxia (balance problems), and visual changes.
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