Zolpidem tartrate
Trade Name:
Ambien
Type of Drug:
Zolpidem tartrate is a drug of the hypnotic class that resembles a benzodiazepine drug.
How Drug Works:
Zolpidem tartrate is used to treat insomnia by enhancing the activity of chemicals in the brain. It produces deep sleep and does not have the muscle relaxant or anticonvulsant properties of benzodiazepine drugs.
How Drug Is Given:
Zolpidem tartrate is a pill given by mouth on an empty stomach. The dose depends on the lowest dose that works for you. Keep the medicine in a tightly closed container away from heat and moisture and out of the reach of children and pets.
How Should I Take This Drug?
Take this drug exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or nurse to explain them to you.
Read the following information. If you do not understand it or if any of it causes you special concern, check with your doctor.
Before taking this drug, tell your doctor if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and herbals.
Should I avoid any other medicines, foods, alcohol, and/or activities?
Your prescription and nonprescription medicines may interact with other drugs, causing harm. Certain foods or alcohol can also interact with drug products. Never begin taking a new medicine—prescription or nonprescription—without asking your doctor or nurse if it will interact with alcohol, food, or other medicines. Some drug products can cause drowsiness and affect activities such as driving.
Precautions:
DO NOT drink alcohol while taking this drug.
Tell your doctor if you are depressed. This drug may make you feel more depressed. If this happens, stop the drug and ask your doctor to find another effective medicine without this problem.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take this drug.
Tell all the doctors, dentists, and pharmacists you visit that you are taking this drug.
  • Most of the following side effects probably will not occur.
  • Your doctor or nurse will want to discuss specific care instructions with you.
  • They can help you understand these side effects and help you deal with them.
Side Effects:
More Common Side Effects
  • Drowsiness
  • Sleepiness
Less Common Side Effects
  • Tiredness (fatigue)
  • Feeling “drugged”
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
Rare Side Effects
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Heartburn
  • Double vision
  • Lack of coordination
  • Decreased memory
Side Effects / Symptoms of the Drug

DO NOT drive or operate heavy machinery until you know the effect of the medicine on you. Zolpidem tartrate may cause you to feel drowsy, dizzy, have decreased reaction time, and decreased ability to concentrate. It is very dangerous to drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel this way.
Other side effects not listed above can also occur in some patients. Tell your doctor or nurse if you develop any problems.
FDA Approval: Yes