Do you have trouble sleeping at night? If you feel like you toss and turn all night and can’t get to sleep, it’s possible that you might need an insomnia medication. One of the most popular insomnia medications on the market today is called Ambien, also known as zolpidem tartrate, which works by slowing down your brain’s activity to allow you to drift off into peaceful slumber. Before you start taking this medication, it’s important to know exactly what it does and why it might not be right for you.

What is the medication Ambien used for?

Commonly prescribed as a sleep aid, Ambien can be helpful for people with insomnia or trouble falling asleep. However, Ambien is not intended for long-term use and should be taken only as needed. The drug can be habit-forming, so it’s important to discuss any sleep problems with your doctor and explore your other treatment options before taking a medication like Ambien.

How does it work?

Ambien (also known as Zolpidem) is a drug prescribed by doctors in order to induce sleep. It works by activating certain receptors within our brains responsible for letting us fall asleep. In some ways, it’s similar to alcohol, which also puts us into a relaxed state of mind and helps us fall asleep. There are, however, significant differences between how alcohol and Ambien affects our bodies; in fact, there are several reasons why you should avoid drinking alcohol when taking Ambien.

Is there a generic version of this drug?

Generic versions of many drugs are available, which can save you a great deal of money. Generic drugs contain exactly the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts, and are often made in facilities that supply brand-name drugs. In other words, when you use a generic drug, there is no difference between it and its brand-name counterpart—except for some possible minor side effects (generic Tylenol has been shown to cause more diarrhea than Tylenol). Learn about what medications have generic versions available.

Who should avoid using this drug?

This medication is not recommended for pregnant women, those under 18 years of age, or anyone with liver disease. In addition, it should not be used by people with a history of alcohol or drug abuse.

When shouldn’t I use this drug?

If you’re allergic to zolpidem, or if you’ve been diagnosed with narcolepsy or a sleep disorder related to breathing problems. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine warns against consuming alcohol while taking Zolpidem and recommends that it not be combined with other medications that depress breathing like opioid painkillers, sleep aids, sedatives, and antihistamines.

Are there any side effects associated with using this drug?

According to WebMD, people who have taken Ambien for more than three months are at risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop using it. These symptoms include vivid dreams or nightmares, insomnia and nausea. If you’re having trouble sleeping without taking a pill and want to stop, talk with your doctor about tapering off gradually.

Does it interact with other medications or supplements?

Many of us take a variety of supplements and medications. If you’re taking something that could be affected by Ambien, talk with your doctor about whether or not you should be taking it while on Ambien. If your doctor isn’t sure if your medication is compatible with other drugs, ask him or her for advice on how to proceed.

Where can I get more information about this medication?

The information contained on our website is designed to provide helpful and general health information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific health care needs. This informational website is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Do not use any of its content in place of seeking professional medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about your health, please promptly contact your doctor or other healthcare provider.