Zolpidem Side Effects

There are a number of possible side effects that may develop with the use of zolpidem. Side effects that are most commonly reported include daytime drowsiness, difficulty with coordination, diarrhea, lightheadedness, and dizziness. Other zolpidem side effects may be more serious and require medical attention; these potential side effects include hallucinations, abnormal behavior, and suicidal thoughts.

 

Zolpidem Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with zolpidem (Ambien®). However, not everyone who takes zolpidem will experience any problems. In fact, most people tolerate zolpidem well. When side effects do occur, they are generally minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
In previous research studies, up to 4 percent of people taking zolpidem stopped their medicine because of side effects. There also appears to be a relationship between the zolpidem dosage and side effects. This is why it is recommended that you take the smallest possible dose of zolpidem for sleep.
 
(The zolpidem side effects discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with this drug. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of zolpidem side effects with you.)
 

Common Zolpidem Side Effects

Zolpidem has been studied extensively in clinical trials, with 3,660 people having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects are always documented. Based on these studies, the most common zolpidem side effects include:
 
  • Daytime drowsiness -- up to 8 percent of people
  • Dizziness -- up to 5 percent of people
  • Diarrhea -- up to 3 percent of people
  • Difficulty with coordination -- up to 3 percent of people
  • Lightheadedness -- up to 2 percent of people.
     
Other zolpidem side effects (occurring in more than 1 percent of patients) include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Dry mouth
  • Allergic reaction
  • Heart palpitations
  • Tiredness
  • Inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis)
  • Unexplained rash
  • Abnormal dreams.
     
(Zolpidem Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;