Ambien Side Effects

Ambien (zolpidem) is a powerful prescription drug of the imidazopyridine class of drugs. It is closely related to benzodiazepine class of drugs effecting many of the same receptors as benzodiazepines do. It is most commonly prescribed to those suffering from severe insomnia. Unfortunately, in addition to providing many benefits to those who suffer from insomnia some who take Ambien have experienced unfortunate side effects.

Common side effects of Ambien (zolpidem)

One of the most commonly reported side effects associated with Ambien use is the development of a headache the morning after taking it. This side effect is reported in over 10% of those who take Ambien. In some cases mild muscle pain and soreness may accompany the headache. In most cases the headache is not severe enough to warrant concern, but if it persists a medical professional should be contacted. Another common side effect of taking Ambien is daytime drowsiness the day after taking it for sleep. This too is not a serious side effect, but for many it can be unpleasant. The best way to minimize next day drowsiness when taking Ambien is to be sure to take it early enough in the night that the effects will be completely worn off by the morning. In some the day time drowsiness can be so sever it can result in a loss of coordination. For this reason it is not recommended to drive for the first couple of hours after waking when Ambien has been ingested the night before. This side effect is more prominent in women.

Other common side effects often experienced when taking Ambien are gastrointestinal in nature. These can include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Gastrointestinal effects can often be limited by avoiding taking Ambien on a completely empty stomach. Also, gastrointestinal effects can be intensified if Ambien is combined with other prescription drugs or taken with alcohol. For this reason it is important to let your doctor know any medications both prescription and nonprescription you are taking before being prescribed Ambien.

Ambien sexual side effects of Ambien (zolpidem)

Ambien has also been found to produce sexual side effects in many who are prescribed it. For some Ambien has the side effect of increasing sexual pleasure as well as promiscuity. Others find Ambien to decrease sex drive and diminish their overall sexual behavior. The reason for this is Ambien's sexual effects manifest through how Ambien effects the brain so it makes sense that users would report a wide variety of sexual side effects from Ambien. Another reason Ambien may promote sexual behavior and promiscuity in many is that since it is similar to benzodiazepine's in structure and action it often will make the user uninhibited in a way that is similar to alcohol.

Long-term effects of Ambien (zolpidem)

When taken for longer than a couple of weeks consecutively Ambien use may result in a worse case of insomnia than it was originally prescribed for. This is one of the most common and often most frustrating of Ambien's side effects. For this reason most doctors will not prescribe Ambien for longer than a month. Also, when taken longer than few weeks, physical dependence to Ambien can developing resulting in an unpleasant withdrawal when the treatment is stopped.