Zolpidem is the generic version of the sleep medication generic Ambien 10mg, which is also available in a longer-acting form known as Ambien CR. This sleep medication — along with zaleplon (Sonata) and eszopiclone (Lunesta) — is widely prescribed and known for its lack of a “hangover” effect.
Uses
Generic Ambien 10mg is used to treat a certain sleep problem (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.
HOW SHOULD I TAKE ZOLPIDEM?
The recommended doses of zolpidem are not the same in men and women, and this drug is not approved for use in children.
Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides. Never use zolpidem in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to take more of this medicine.
Zolpidem may be habit-forming. Misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or death. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Zolpidem will make you fall asleep. Never take Ambien, Edluar, or Zolpimist if you do not have a full 7 to 8 hours to sleep before being active again.
Do not take Intermezzo for middle-of-the-night insomnia unless you have 4 hours of sleep time left before being active.
Zolpidem is for short-term use only. Do not take zolpidem for longer than 5 weeks without your doctor’s advice.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 to 10 days of treatment, or if they get worse.
Do not stop using zolpidem suddenly after long-term use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to safely stop using this medicine.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Keep the Zolpimist bottle upright when not in use.
Insomnia symptoms may also return after you stop taking zolpidem, and maybe even worse than before. Tell your doctor if you still have worsened insomnia after the first few nights without taking zolpidem.