Description
Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication that is commonly used to treat insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs known as non-benzodiazepine hypnotics and is typically prescribed for short-term use to help individuals with difficulty falling asleep.
Sandoz is a pharmaceutical company that produces generic medications, including generic versions of zolpidem. “Ambien” is a brand name for the medication zolpidem, and it is often associated with the immediate-release form of the drug.
Therefore, “Zolpidem Sandoz Ambien” likely refers to a generic version of the Ambien brand of zolpidem produced by the pharmaceutical company Sandoz. Generic medications are equivalent to their brand-name counterparts in terms of active ingredients and intended use, but they are often more affordable.
It’s important to note that while zolpidem can be effective for treating insomnia, it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and the prescribed dosage and duration should be followed to minimize the risk of side effects and dependency. If you have specific questions about a medication, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light.
Do not store in the bathroom.
How To Use
- Take this medication by mouth immediately before bedtime on an empty stomach or as directed.
- This medication is usually taken for short periods of 7 to 10 days.
- Take this exactly as prescribed.
- Do not increase the dose or take this for longer than prescribed.
Side Effects
- Daytime drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, lightheadedness, and dry mouth may occur.
- If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
The following side effects have been rarely reported.
- Notify your doctor if you develop chest pain, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, skin rash, fever, behavior changes, mental confusion, abnormal thinking or depression while taking this medication.
- To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly.
- Also avoid intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects.
- Because this medication causes drowsiness, use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, a history of drug dependence or depression, breathing problems or if you have any allergies.
- This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- Take your dose at or near bedtime.
- If you miss a dose, do not take it if it is near the time for your next dose.
- Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including any medication for depression or seizures, narcotic pain relievers or sedatives.
- Avoid the use of alcohol while taking this medication.
- Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
- Zolpidem
- Ambien (brand name)
- Insomnia treatment
- Hypnotic medication
- Prescription sleep aid
- Sedative-hypnotic
- Controlled substance
- Sleep disorders
- European Medicines Agency (EMA)
- National Medicines Agency (e.g., MHRA in the UK, BfArM in Germany)
- Medication regulation
