Ambien Side Effects

Many people have trouble sleeping now and then, but it usually goes away on its own or with a few lifestyle changes. For some, however, insomnia becomes a chronic issue, and they need medications like Ambien to help them sleep. Unfortunately, Ambien has some side effects like headaches, memory problems, and feeling groggy during the day. 

Ambien can also be potentially life-threatening if used incorrectly, especially when combined with central nervous system (CNS) depressants like alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines. Like all sedative-hypnotic drugs, Ambien can cause dependence. 

For LGBTQ individuals trying to overcome Ambien addiction, having the right support can make all the difference. At Q Space Detox, we know that recovery is harder when you're dealing with extra stress and stigma, and our identity-affirming is here to help you every step of the way.

What Is Ambien?

Ambien is the brand name for zolpidem, a fast-acting sedative-hypnotic primarily used to treat insomnia. It works by binding to CNS receptors that help calm neural activity, much like benzodiazepines such as Valium and Xanax. This action causes users to quickly fall into a deep sleep.

Although Ambien is effective, it’s known to be habit-forming and can lead to addiction. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandates warning labels on the packaging due to reports of unusual sleep behaviors like sleepwalking or sleep driving—rare occurrences that have, in some cases, resulted in serious injury or death.

Why is Ambien Prescribed?

Prescription Ambien is intended to help people fall asleep and stay asleep. It is meant for short-term use, although the root cause of insomnia may not resolve within this period. Manufacturers recommend using Ambien for as brief a period as possible. If sleep problems persist beyond about 7 to 10 days, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine if another condition might be causing the sleep difficulty.

However, the idea of "short-term" can be vague, and some end up using Ambien for much longer if their sleep difficulties remain unresolved. Prolonged use increases the risk of dependency. In addition, the pleasurable effects of Ambien can lead some to misuse the medication, which may result in more severe side effects and a higher risk of addiction.

Side Effects of Ambien/Zolpidem

Below are some common and rare side effects of this medication:

Daytime Drowsiness

Ambien is designed to help with sleep, so feeling drowsy is common. However, if you don't get a full 7 to 8 hours of rest or mix it with other sedatives, that drowsiness might linger into the next day, making activities like driving unsafe.

Dizziness

Since Ambien affects the central nervous system, it can cause dizziness and a sense of unsteadiness. This can make simple tasks or even move around risky, especially for older adults who may be more prone to falls.

Nausea

Some people experience nausea when taking Ambien. This side effect can occur on its own or be related to dizziness. Taking the medication on an empty stomach or with a small snack may help minimize this effect, although doing so may slow its effects. Ambien can also cause abdominal cramps, constipation, and diarrhea.

Abnormal Sleep-Related Behaviors

Though rare, Ambien can trigger unusual sleep activities. Some individuals might sleepwalk, engage in routine tasks, or even perform actions like driving while not fully awake. These behaviors can be dangerous, so any signs of odd sleep activity should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Changes in Thinking and Behavior

Ambien may also lead to unexpected changes in behavior, such as agitation, hallucinations, low mood, memory problems, or other unusual mental effects. These symptoms can be unsettling and indicate that a change in medication might be needed.

Is Ambien Addictive?

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency classifies Ambien as a Schedule IV controlled substance. This category means it is considered to have a low potential for abuse when used correctly. When taken exactly as prescribed and not combined with other CNS depressants, the risk of becoming dependent on Ambien is low.

However, if someone stops taking Ambien abruptly or reduces the dose too quickly, withdrawal symptoms can occur. These symptoms may include a general sense of unease, lightheadedness, insomnia, muscle cramps, nausea or abdominal discomfort, sweating, uncontrolled crying, tremors, and in severe cases, convulsions. 

To reduce the risk of dangerous withdrawal effects, it is often best to undergo a medically supervised tapering process in a treatment facility where healthcare professionals can monitor the transition safely.

How Can I Spot Ambien Addiction?

Ambien addiction can reveal itself in several ways. For one, a person might start taking more Ambien or use it for a longer period than they originally planned, even when they genuinely want to cut back. They may also find themselves spending an increasing amount of time obtaining the drug, using it, or recovering from its effects. 

Strong cravings for the drug may interfere with daily routines, neglecting responsibilities at work, home, or school, and straining relationships. Some people may go as far as giving up activities that once mattered to them, engage in risky behaviors to secure the drug and develop a tolerance that requires higher doses.

Q Space Can Help 

While only a professional can diagnose Ambien addiction, spotting tell-tale signs of addiction is a vital first step toward seeking help. If you are LGBTQ+ or someone you care about is, and they are struggling with stopping, consider reaching out to Q Space Detox at 305-745-7768 to explore the available options for recovery.