Skin & Eye Complications With Ambien CR

Ambien CR is a slow-release sleep aid that contains zolpidem tartrate. It is an imidazopyridine class non-benzodiazepine hypnotic. While most of the significant side effects reported in clinical studies performed by manufacturer sanofi-aventis noted next day somnolence, dizziness and headaches, a small number of trial participants complained of adverse skin and eye side effects.

Study Information

• The reported side effects of Ambien CR are based on a three-week clinical trial using both adults and senior citizens over the age of 65. The study used 6.25 and 12.5 milligrams of Ambien CR dosed appropriately, and a placebo dosed in a like fashion. Over the three-week period, side effects were noted and documented. Less than 1 percent of the medicated study group noted several types of side effects of the eyes and skin.

Side Effects of the Eye

• Of the clinical trial participants who were given 12.5 milligrams of Ambien CR, three reported visual disturbances; two reported eye redness and blurry vision; and one reported altered visual depth perception problems and asthenopia, such as eye strain or eye fatigue. One subject out of the placebo group also noted blurred vision. No eye side effects were reported in the group that was dosed with the 6.25 milligrams of Ambien CR.

Side Effects of the Skin

• Out of the clinical trial group that was dosed with 12.5 milligrams of Ambien CR, one person reported a rash; one person reported noticeable skin wrinkling; and a third reported urticaria, commonly known as hives. There were no abnormal skin side effects noted in the placebo group. Those participants dosed with the 6.25 milligrams of Ambien CR had similar results to the 12.5 milligram group. With the exception of skin wrinkling, one person reported a rash and one urticaria. Again, none of the placebo group reported any adverse side effects.