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Risks of Ambien

Ambien, or the generic drug zolpidem, is a strong sedative meant to help people with insomnia. Because it makes you sleepy, it may affect your ability to function properly if you take it during usual waking hours. Avoid alcohol, which magnifies Ambien's effects.

  1. Sleepwalking Reported

    • According to reports received by the Food and Drug Administration, Ambien may be linked to sleepwalking in rare cases, which can result in injury or accidents.

    Memory Loss Reported

    • Some people taking Ambien have reported that they sometimes couldn't remember conversations or activities such as eating or driving.

    Serious Side Effects

    • The serious side effects of Ambien can include depressive thoughts leading to self-injury, tendency for risky behavior, anxiety, confusion, restlessness and hallucinations.

    Dependence

    • People who take more than the recommended dose for more than 10 days may become dependent on Ambien. They may find it impossible to go to sleep without it and may suffer withdrawal symptoms.

    Online Purchase

    • The FDA has issued a warning against buying Ambien over the Internet from other countries, as it may contain traces of the antipsychotic drug haloperidol, which has dangerous side effects.

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