Ambien: The Good, the Bad and Facts

Millions of people suffer from sleep problems as did actor Heath Ledger who passed away January 22. I've suffered from trouble sleeping for as long as I can remember. Heath was taking Ambien for his insomnia along with a few other prescription drugs at the time of his death. Anti-depressants are one of the prescription drugs he was taking.

According to RxList Ambien and Ambien Cr (zolpidem tartrate) is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic of the imidazopyridine class. What that means is that the drug is a sedative and helps people relax so they can fall asleep and stay asleep.

Ambien is designed for temporary use to treat insomnia. Sleeping pills are usually not prescribed for longer than 10 day. It is strongly suggested to take this medication only at bedtime and when you are sure you can get a full 7-8 worth of sleep.

According to Drugs.com it has been shown that people taking this drug then eating, talking on the phone or even driving will have no memory of doing the activity. It is suggested you speak to your doctor if this happens to you.

The side effects of Ambien are to be expected: feeling tired, dizzy or even drugged. Other side effects that are not so common are: insomnia, problems with balance and changes to your vision. It is recommended to lay down right after you take the medication to prevent falling. For a full list of side effects talk to your doctor, pharmacist or look for the patient info that came with your medication.

As with most drugs there are precautions: According to Drugs.com people with kidney disease liver dieses, lung disease, history of abusing drugs or alcohol or have a history of depression or mental illness should speak to their doctor before taking the drug.

Drug interactions are: caffeine, antidepressants, St. Johns Wart, medications to treat HIV, flumazenil. For a full list and also list of medications that may cause more drowsiness go to drugdigest.com.