Zolpidem
Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid A Receptor Positive Modulator
Controlled Drug Substance
YES
Zolpidem
Summary
Zolpidem is primarily used to treat insomnia, especially for those who have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It is typically used for short-term treatment.
Zolpidem enhances the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. GABA has calming effects on the central nervous system. By binding to specific GABA receptors, Zolpidem promotes sleepiness and reduces the time it takes to fall asleep.
The usual daily dosage for adults is 5 to 10 mg, taken orally just before bed, on an empty stomach. The dosage may vary depending on the individual and their response to the medication. It is typically used for short-term treatment, usually 7 to 10 days.
Common side effects include dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Serious adverse effects may include memory problems, sleepwalking, abnormal behavior, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, it can lead to confusion, depression, or suicidal thoughts.
Zolpidem should not be used by individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug, sleep apnea, or severe liver impairment. It can cause impaired coordination and memory issues, so caution is needed when operating machinery or driving. It should not be combined with alcohol or other sedatives as it increases the risk of severe side effects.
Indications and Purpose
How does Zolpidem work?
Zolpidem works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, specifically the GABA-A receptors. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that has an inhibitory effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and sleep. By enhancing the effects of GABA, Zolpidem helps induce sleep, reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, and improve sleep quality. Unlike traditional benzodiazepines, Zolpidem is more selective in its action, focusing on the sleep-related areas of the brain, which helps minimize some of the side effects associated with other sedative medications.
Is Zolpidem effective?
Clinical studies demonstrate that zolpidem significantly reduces sleep onset latency and improves sleep quality. It has been shown to help patients fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, with effects occurring within 15 to 30 minutes. Compared to placebo, zolpidem is proven to enhance sleep efficiency and reduce nighttime awakenings, making it effective for short-term insomnia treatment.
What is Zolpidem?
Zolpidem is a medication commonly used to treat insomnia, particularly for short-term management of sleep initiation difficulties. It works by enhancing the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that has calming effects on the central nervous system. By binding to specific GABA receptors, Zolpidem helps promote sleepiness and reduces the time it takes to fall asleep. It is typically used as a short-term solution due to the risk of dependency with long-term use.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Zolpidem?
Zolpidem is a sleep aid that should only be used for a short time, like a few weeks. If you take it for longer, you may become dependent on it and it may no longer work as well. You may also be more likely to misuse or become addicted to it. That's why it's important to talk to your doctor if you need to take Zolpidem for more than a few weeks.
How do I dispose of Zolpidem?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Zolpidem?
Zolpidem should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally just before bedtime. It is important to avoid taking it with food, as food can delay its absorption and may reduce its effectiveness. People using Zolpidem should also avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants (like sedatives, tranquilizers, or antidepressants) while taking the medication, as combining these substances can enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of side effects such as excessive drowsiness or difficulty breathing.
How long does it take for Zolpidem to start working?
Zolpidem typically starts working within 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion. Its peak effect is usually felt within 1 to 2 hours. The onset of action can vary depending on individual factors like metabolism and whether the medication is taken on an empty stomach.
How should I store Zolpidem?
The ideal storage temperature for this item is between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). However, temporary excursions between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F) are acceptable.
What is the usual dose of Zolpidem?
- For adults, women should start with 5 mg and men with 5 or 10 mg each night before bed. - Do not take more than 10 mg per day. - Zolpidem is not recommended for children.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Zolpidem with other prescription drugs?
Zolpidem can interact with other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, and antihistamines, increasing the risk of sedation, respiratory depression, and overdose. It may also interact with certain antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) and anticonvulsants, enhancing side effects. Always inform a healthcare provider of all medications being taken to avoid harmful interactions.
Can Zolpidem be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Zolpidem is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. While short-term use may be considered safe, it is recommended to use it with caution while breastfeeding. To avoid potential sedation or side effects in the infant, a healthcare provider may suggest alternatives or monitor the baby closely for any adverse reactions.
Can Zolpidem be taken safely while pregnant?
Zolpidem is classified as a Category C medication during pregnancy, meaning animal studies have shown adverse effects, but there are no adequate human studies. It may cause harm to the fetus, especially during the first trimester. It should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks, and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Does Zolpidem have adverse effects?
Adverse effects, which are unwanted or harmful reactions to a medicine, can occur with any medication. For this medicine, common adverse effects might include nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and dry mouth. These effects can vary in how often they happen, but they are generally not severe. However, there are rare but serious adverse effects that need immediate medical attention, such as difficulty breathing, severe rash, or swelling of the face and throat. It's crucial to report any new or worsening symptoms to a healthcare provider. Never stop taking a medicine without first consulting a healthcare professional, as they can provide guidance on how to manage side effects safely.
Does Zolpidem have any safety warnings?
To determine if a medicine has safety warnings, you should first check the prescription information provided with the medicine. This information often includes a section on warnings and precautions. For example, if a medicine has a warning about causing drowsiness, the rationale is that it can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery, leading to accidents. The possible consequence is injury to yourself or others. To guard against this, you should monitor for signs of drowsiness, such as feeling unusually sleepy or having difficulty concentrating. If you experience these symptoms, avoid activities that require full alertness. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Zolpidem?
No, combining zolpidem with alcohol can be dangerous. Both substances have sedative effects, which may enhance drowsiness, dizziness, and respiratory problems. This combination can increase the risk of serious side effects. Avoid alcohol while taking zolpidem, and talk to your doctor for more guidance.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Zolpidem?
Exercising while taking zolpidem may be safe if you feel alert and coordinated. However, since zolpidem can cause drowsiness and coordination problems, it's important to avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise requiring balance until you know how the medication affects you. Always check with your doctor first.
Is it safe to stop Zolpidem?
To determine if it's safe to stop a medicine, first identify its purpose. If it's for managing a chronic condition like hypertension or diabetes, stopping it suddenly can lead to serious health risks, such as uncontrolled blood pressure or blood sugar levels. If the medicine is for symptomatic relief or treating a temporary condition, like an infection, stopping it might lead to a return of symptoms or incomplete treatment. Some medicines can cause withdrawal symptoms or rebound effects, where symptoms return worse than before. Abruptly stopping certain medicines can be life-threatening, especially those affecting the heart or brain. Always consult a doctor before stopping any medicine to ensure it's done safely and appropriately.
Is Zolpidem addictive?
This medicine does not have any known potential for dependence or addiction. It is considered safe in terms of habit-forming properties. Therefore, there is no need to worry about physical or psychological dependence when using this medication as prescribed. However, it is always important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use. If you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance.
Is Zolpidem safe for the elderly?
Zolpidem is not recommended for older adults because: * The 7.5 mg dose is too strong and cannot be adjusted as needed. * Older adults are more sensitive to sedatives and may experience drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty thinking. * Doses above 5 mg can disrupt sleep the following night. * Older adults are more likely to have falls and confusion, especially if they take more than the recommended dose.
What are the most common side effects of Zolpidem?
A side effect is an unwanted or unexpected symptom caused by a medicine. For this medicine, common side effects may include nausea, which is feeling sick to your stomach, and headache, which is pain in your head. Other side effects might be dizziness, which is feeling lightheaded, and fatigue, which is feeling very tired. Some people also experience dry mouth, which is when your mouth feels unusually dry. The frequency of these side effects can vary, but they are generally considered common. It's important to remember that when starting a new medicine, you might notice new symptoms. These could be unrelated to the medicine, temporary, or due to another health issue. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medicine, as they can help determine the best course of action for your health.
Who should avoid taking Zolpidem?
Zolpidem should not be used by individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug, sleep apnea, or severe liver impairment. It can cause impaired coordination and memory issues, so caution is needed when operating machinery or driving. It should not be combined with alcohol or other sedatives, as it increases the risk of severe side effects.
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