AMBIEN - zolpidem -
belongs to a class of medicines that effects the central nervous system, called sedative hypnotics. Zolpidem is closely related
to a family of drugs called benzodiazepines. These drugs cause sedation, muscle relaxation, act as anti-convulsants (anti-seizure),
and have anti-anxiety properties. Zolpidem has selectivity in that it has little of the muscle relaxant or anti-seizure effect
and more of the sedative effect. Therefore, it is used as a medication for sleep.
Zolpidem is used as a sleeping pill to treat insomnia (difficulty
falling asleep or staying asleep, or early awakening). It has been shown to put patients to sleep faster and keep them asleep
longer. Sleeping pills generally are not prescribed for more than 10
days and are usually taken intermittently as needed to avoid problems
with addiction, loss of effectiveness, and rebound phenomena. Ambien is
a relatively new drug, it is chemically different from other common sleep medications such as Halcion and Dalmane.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects of Zolpidem are
drowsiness, dizziness, and a "drugged" feeling, which probably reflect
the action of the drug. Other side effects include confusion, insomnia,
euphoria, ataxia (balance problems), and visual changes.
|
