Zolpidem

Zolpidem is a generic name of a medicine intended for the treatment of sleep problems (insomnia). This medication is supposed to be taken as recommended for a short period of time to avoid addiction and developing tolerance. It’s important to let your doctor know about any medicines you are taking at the moment, especially if they are any of the following ones: rifampin, sertraline, ketoconazole, itraconazole, imipramine, or chlorpromazine. The drugs mentioned above are not the only ones that may interfere with zolpidem, but are most often prescribed and you need to be especially careful with them. People with a history of drug or alcohol addiction are not supposed to be taking this medication at all, as they may develop an addiction to it if taking zolpidem regularly. Not being a problem by itself, an addiction to zolpidem can make it impossible for you to stop the treatment at once without suffering from a number of withdrawal effects, such as behavior changes, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, nausea, muscle cramps, seizure, anxiety, and panic. To avoid the symptoms mentioned you will need to discuss a gradual withdrawal plan with your doctor beforehand. Such states and conditions as depression, sleep apnea, myasthenia gravis, a history of drug or alcohol addiction, suicidal thoughts, lung disease, kidney disease, mental illness, or liver disease are supposed to be reported to your health care provider before you being the treatment, as they may affect not only the dose you are prescribed, but also how you will be recommended to take zolpidem – as needed or regularly. You may need additional tests to establish the safety of this medication if you have any of the conditions mentioned. Take zolpidem on an empty stomach to provide for its better absorption, and make sure you have at least 7-8 hours that you can dedicate to sleeping. If you get up before this time, you may get memory problems for the rest of the day. In case you get any of the following mild side effects, there is no need to worry, as they are most likely to go away on their own: headache, sore throat, weakness, constipation, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, lack of coordination, lightheadedness, and stuffy nose. Mores serious side effects, however, need to be reported as soon as possible, as they need to be taken into consideration. The following serious side effects are sometimes possible: hallucinations, anxiety, unusual thoughts, depression, aggression, and confusion. Seek emergency medical help if you believe you have taken too much of this drug - whether on purpose or by accident. You can also display some of the following symptoms that will indicate clearly you have taken too much and need medical help: coma, sleepiness, shallow breathing, fainting, confusion, and lightheadedness. An overdose of zolpidem can be lethal. Make sure you avoid using more of this medicine than recommended by your doctor, as you will be prescribed the lowest efficient dose that will not produce side effects.