Details

Zolpidem is a sedative, also called a hypnotic. It affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with sleep problems (insomnia). Zolpidem is used to treat insomnia. To make sure zolpidem is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease liver disease lung disease such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) sleep apnoea (breathing stops during sleep) myasthenia gravis a history of depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts or a history of drug or alcohol addiction. Zolpidem is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Typical Uses

Zolpidem is used to treat sleep problems (insomnia) in adults. If you have trouble falling asleep, it helps you fall asleep faster, so you can get a better night's rest. Zolpidem belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics. It acts on your brain to produce a calming effect. This medication is usually limited to short treatment periods of 1 to 2 weeks or less.

Side Effects

Common zolpidem side effects may include chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, feeling short of breath trouble breathing or swallowing or feeling like you might pass out.

Drug Interactions

• Zolpidem+propoxyphene- Using propoxyphene together with zolpidem may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. You should take propoxyphene exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take larger doses or use the drug more frequently than prescribed.
• Zolpidem+buprenorphine- Using buprenorphine together with other medications that cause central nervous system depression such as zolpidem can lead to serious side effects such as respiratory distress, coma, or even death. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications.

Mechanism of action

Zolpidem belongs to a group of drugs called hypnotics and sedatives. It works by slowing activity in the brain to help you sleep.

Pregnancy Category : C