A good night's sleep is invaluable for your
mental and physical well being. If you suffer
from insomnia, ask your doctor about AmbienŽ (zolpidem
tartrate), the most prescribed sleep medication
in the U.S.
|
AmbienŽ
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.
|
