Zolpidem

Zolpidem is a medicine that belongs to the group of sedative-hypnotics and can be used to treat sleep problems in patients to whom it was prescribed. Its effects are based on slowing the activity onside your brain therefore allowing you to fall asleep faster. Zolpidem is prescribed and used to induce sleepiness, so it will make you very sleepy about 10 minutes after you take it. Plan ahead to make sure you will be able to sleep at least 7-8 hours, otherwise do not take this drug at all. Make sure you report to your doctor the fact of your sleep problems getting worse after you started taking zolpidem, as this may mean the medication is not working properly for you. Zolpidem should be taken for as long as prescribed by your health care provider, this period is usually not longer than 7-10 days. If you have been prescribed to take zolpidem for two weeks or longer you can develop tolerance to the dosage and it may not be as helpful. Avoid adjusting the dose yourself as this can have dangerous health consequences.

Being allergic to zolpidem is a direct contraindication for taking this medication. Before you start the treatment let your health care provider know about any allergies you have to prevent an allergic reaction from occurring. Make sure you mention the fact of taking any other medications that can cause interactions. Since you are likely to develop addiction when taking zolpidem for a long time, make sure you let your doctor know if you are going to stop taking zolpidem. If you stop abruptly certain withdrawal symptoms are possible, including stomach and muscle cramps, sweating, vomiting, shakiness and seizures. Mild side effects of zolpidem include diarrhea, changes in appetite, weakness, headache, heartburn, dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, and uncontrollable shaking.