Brentwood, TN 2/11/2010 6:02:06 AM
Zolpidem Facts
What does this generic sleep aid offer those looking for a quick high and what are the dangers involved?
It may not be a household word, but zolpidem is a tongue twister of a term and is causing quite a stir in addiction circles. A generic version of the drug used in brand-name medications like Ambien and Zolpimist, zolpidem belongs to a class of drugs called sedatives or hypnotics and is closely related to a family of sedatives called benzodiazepines, according to prescribing information provided by the FDA. These drugs cause sedation, muscle relaxation, act as anti-convulsants (anti-seizure), and reduce anxiety.
Zolpidem Uses and Effects
Unlike benzodiazepines zolpidem has little of the muscle relaxant and anti-seizure effects and more of the sedative effect, making it popular for use as a sleep aid. When used properly, it can help those suffering from insomnia. Zolpidem has been shown to put patients to sleep more rapidly and keep them asleep longer.
Other Names For Zolpidem
In addition to Ambien and Zolpimist, zolpidem may also be known by the following brand names: Adormix, Ambien CR, Edluar, Damixan, Hypnogen, Ivedal, Lioran, Myslee, Nytamel, Sanval, Stilnoct, Stilnox, Stilnox CR, Sucedal, Zoldem, Zolnod and Zolpihexal.
Zolpidem Formulas
Available by prescription only, zolpidem is available in 5 and 10 mg. tablets as well as an oral spray. The oral spray form of zolpidem, Zolpimist, has more rapid absorption than the tablet form because it is absorbed through the lining of the mouth. Zolpidem tablets should be taken without food at bedtime to induce a rapid onset of sleep.
Zolpidem Side Effects
The most common reported side effects of zolpidem are drowsiness, dizziness and a "drugged" feeling, which probably reflect the action of the drug. Other side effects include confusion, insomnia, euphoria, balance problems and visual changes.
Zolpidem Dangers
Like other sleeping medications, zolpidem is generally not prescribed for more than 10 days and is usually taken intermittently as needed to avoid problems with addiction or habituation, loss of effectiveness and rebound phenomena, according to the FDA. Alcohol has an additive effect with zolpidem and the two should not be combined. Zolpidem should also be used cautiously in patients with respiratory diseases because of its depressing effect on breathing. While zolpidem has few drug interactions with other medicines, caution should be used when combining it with other sedative drugs because of the additive effects. Zolpidem can cause abnormal behavior including confusion or paradoxical insomnia. Zolpidem users may also be at risk for what the FDA calls "complex sleep-related behaviors," which may include “sleep driving” (driving with no memory of having done so).
Zolpidem Abuse & Addiction
When taken for extended periods of time, zolpidem does become addictive and a drug tolerance can develop. Zolpidem is used by some recreationally for its sedative, euphoric and hallucinogenic effects. Recreational users are known to fight the sleep-inducing effects of the drug so they can remain awake to experience the drug’s other side effects. Transition from medical use of zolpidem to high-dose addiction can occur when doctor’s recommendations for use are not followed or when the drug is taken for reasons unrelated to sleeplessness. While abuse is more prevalent in those that have been dependent on other drugs in the past, tolerance or dependence can still sometimes occur in those without a history of drug dependence. Since the drug is available in pill form, that makes it easy for abusers to crush, snort or inject zolpidem to achieve a more intense high. The production of an extended-release version of zolpidem (in the form of brand-name medication AmbienCR) drew new interest among recreational drug users.
Zolpidem Withdrawal
Zolpidem used at higher dosages can cause withdrawal symptoms ranging from muscle cramps and sweats to shaking and seizures. That’s why it is not recommended that the drug be discontinued abruptly.
Zolpidem Addiction
If you or a family member is struggling with a drug addiction, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.
