Will Ambien help you Sleep Better?

Ambien is a prescription sleep-aid that has been on the market for a number of years now.  It is prescribed by both general practice doctors as well as psychiatrists for those with serious sleep issues.  It is a sedative and meant to be used on a short-term basis.  It will definitely get you to sleep, but the side effects can be considerable.

Ambien Ingredients and Research

The generic name for Ambien is Zolpidem and it is a short-acting nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic (sedative) that generally works to induce sleep within about 15 minutes.  It has a half-life of two to three hours, meaning by the time you awake, anywhere from 6 to 13% of the drug will still be affecting your system.

Ambien Side Effects

Despite powerful and quick-acting effects, research has shown that many who take it end up feeling weak, fatigued and often depressed or irritable.   It can be habit-forming and is also often known to cause a “hangover” feeling that can last into the next day.

Other side effects may include:

• Amnesia
• Hallucinations
• Sleep-walking
• Increased appetite
• Increased impulsivity

Ambien Value

This medication is prescription only and would be unsafe to use without the supervision of a doctor.  For this reason, the cost is much higher than most over-the-counter sleep aids.  If you have serious insomnia, it might be worth it but otherwise is not a good value.

Ambien Bottom Line

This is a powerful drug with some serious and potentially dangerous side effects.  Factoring in the cost as well makes me not recommend it unless, as mentioned before, you have a serious condition of insomnia.  Speak to your doctor if you wish, but I recommend looking into a safer alternative first.