Ambien Online (Zolpidem) for Sleeping Disorder Treatment

Overview of Ambien (Zolpidem)

Ambien (generic name zolpidem) is a prescription medication to treat short-term insomnia and sleep disorders. It is a popular non-narcotic sedative-hypnotic with the main ingredient zolpidem.

These drugs alter the brain’s chemistry to restore a healthy sleep cycle.

What is Ambien used for?

During the early 90s, the FDA approved Ambien to lessen sleep-related problems. However, many healthcare providers have used it for off-label conditions.

Here are some of the key uses of Ambien:

• Insomnia treatment: Ambien pills help with relieving short-term treatment of insomnia. Doctors would most probably prescribe Ambien if you have severe sleep disturbances.
• Frequent awakenings: It reduces the number of times you wake up at night. 
• Waking up too early: It helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep for a longer period.
• Jet lag: Ambien can reduce jet lag severity in people who travel across various time zones. 

How does Ambien work?

Ambien works differently than other sleep aids. To clarify, it helps you fall asleep faster without affecting other body functions.

Ambien (zolpidem) targets GABA-A receptors, responsible for sleep. It binds to these GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors in the brain and enhance their activity. 

GABA is a neurotransmitter that slows down nerve activity in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing wakefulness. By increasing GABA activity, Ambien calms the brain, making you feel relaxed and sedated. This process helps you fall asleep quickly and stay asleep for longer.

Alternatives to Ambien for insomnia

Looking for alternatives to Ambien? There are many options available to treat insomnia. However, you should consult a doctor before trying any of these options.

Here are some alternatives to Ambien:

• Prescription Medications: You can use these FDA-approved medications for sleep improvement Horizant, Zaleplon, Lunesta.
• Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-I) is a non-medical way to change sleep habits. It helps you to alter negative thoughts, and unusual behaviors, so you don’t rely on medicine.
• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, healthy diet and positivity can improve sleep quality.
• Sleep hygiene: Establish a proper sleep schedule, avoid caffeine and electronics before bedtime. Create a relaxing sleep environment to improve sleep duration.
• Relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, relaxation, and meditation can promote sleep.
• Herbal Remedies: Kava and lemon balm are traditional ways to get better sleep.

Dosage guidelines

Don’t use Ambien without a prescription. Doctors prescribe it as an immediate-release tablet or an extended-release version (Ambien CR).

Further, the recommended dosage varies from person to person. It is usually based on age, gender and medical condition. The most common dosage of Ambien is 10 mg per day for short-term use (7-10 weeks).

Here are the dosage guidelines for Ambien:

Adults

• Immediate-release tablets: 5-10 mg orally once daily before bedtime.
• Extended-release tablets: 6.25-12.5 mg orally once daily before bedtime. 

Older adults (≥65 years)

• Immediate-release tablets: 5 mg orally once daily before bedtime.
• Extended-release tablets: 6.25 mg orally once daily before bedtime.

Special populations

• Hepatic impairment: 5 mg orally once daily before bedtime.
• Renal impairment: No dosage change is necessary.

How to take Ambien

Ambien works best when you’re on an empty stomach. Since it’s a sedative-hypnotic, use it when you are ready to sleep for 7-8 hours. 

At  Smile Dental Riverview, our healthcare team will guide you about Ambien dosage. 

Follow these directions while taking Ambien:

• Swallow the tablet: Swallow the tablet whole. Don’t crush, chew, or break it.
• Take before bedtime: Take Ambien before going to bed.
• Set a sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
• Avoid with sedatives: Do not take it with sedatives, antidepressants, or muscle relaxants.

Side effects of Ambien

When using Ambien, you may notice some side effects. So, consult your doctor if they last longer. 

Here are some side effects:

Common side effects (≥5%)

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

Serious side effects (Rare)

• Anaphylaxis (serious allergic reaction)
• Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Sleepwalk

Potential risks and warnings

Like other medications, Ambien also comes with health risks. Some of the warnings include:

• Dependency: Long term use can increase the dependency on the medication for sleep.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Stopping Ambien suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like rebound insomnia, and anxiety.
• Contraindications: Individuals with a history of addiction can't use Ambien. Likewise, it is not recommended to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Systemic Diseases: Ambien is not safe to consume during medical conditions related to the liver and lungs. It can cause slow breathing and liver toxicity. 

Drug interactions

Ambien produces opposing effects when interacting with other medications. Hence, don't take Ambien with the following medications:

• Antidepressants: Some of them can increase the risks of side effects.
• Other Sedatives: Taking Ambien with alcohol and other sedatives can be harmful. Therefore, seek guidance from your doctor while taking such medications. 

Signs of Ambien addiction and dependence

Ambien addiction and dependence can appear in many ways. Here are some to look out for:

• Taking more and longer than prescribed dose
• Using for non medical purposes
• Intense cravings for Ambien
• Using despite problems
• Unable to cut down