A good night's sleep is invaluable for your mental and physical well
being. If you suffer from insomnia, ask your doctor about Ambien®
(zolpidem tartrate), the most prescribed sleep medication in the U.S.
Ambien®
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for,
the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug
is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional
before using this drug.
Uses
This medication is used to treat insomnia (sleeping disorders).
How to Use
Take this medication by mouth immediately before bedtime on an empty stomach
or as directed. This medication is usually taken for short periods of
7 to 10 days. Take this exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the dose
or take this for longer than prescribed.
Side Effects
Daytime drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach upset, vomiting,
diarrhea, lightheadedness, and dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects
continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor
if you develop any of these serious side effects while taking this medication:
chest pain, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, skin rash, fever,
behavior changes, mental confusion, abnormal thinking, depression. To
avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying
position, get up slowly. Also avoid intake of alcoholic beverages which
will aggravate these effects. Because this medication causes drowsiness,
use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness. If you notice
other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of kidney disease, liver
disease, lung disease, drug dependency, depression, breathing problems,
any allergies. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if
clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since
small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your
doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you
may take including: any medication for depression or seizures, narcotic
pain relievers, sedatives. Avoid the use of alcohol while taking this
medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include difficulty
breathing, clumsiness, slowed heart rate, and deep sleep from which you
cannot be awakened.
Notes
Elderly persons are usually more sensitive to the effects of this medication.
Use cautiously. You may experience sleeping difficulties on the first
night after stopping this medication. Be aware of this effect. If the
problem continues, contact your doctor.
Missed Dose
Take your dose at or near bedtime. If you miss a dose, do not take it
if it is near the time for your next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose
and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to
catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees
C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.
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All rights reserved. Products mentioned are trademarks of their respective
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