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Ambien
can be very effective in the short-term treatment of insomnia.
It can help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and not awaken prematurely.
If taken as prescribed, Ambien can give you the good night's
sleep your body demands without lingering drowsiness the following
day.
Take
Ambien by mouth immediately before bedtime on an empty
stomach or as directed. Ambien is usually taken for
short periods of 7 to 10 days. Take Ambien exactly
as prescribed. Do not increase the dose or take Ambien
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. Notify your doctor
if you develop any of these serious side effects while
taking Ambien: chest pain, rapid heart rate, difficulty
breathing, skin rash, fever, behavior changes, mental
confusion, abnormal thinking, depression. 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 your medical history,
especially of kidney disease, liver disease, lung
disease, drug dependency, depression, breathing problems,
any allergies. Ambien should be used during pregnancy
only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits
with your doctor. Since small amounts of Ambien are
found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your
local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose may include difficulty breathing,
clumsiness, slowed heart rate, and deep sleep from
which you cannot be awakened.
Missed Dose
Take your dose of Ambien at or near
bedtime. If you miss a dose, do not take it if it
is near the time for your next dose.
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.
Notes
Elderly persons are usually more sensitive
to the effects of Ambien. Use cautiously. You may
experience sleeping difficulties on the first night
after stopping Ambien. Be aware of this effect. If
the problem continues, contact your doctor.
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