Ambien Drug Interactions

When certain medications are taken with Ambien, drug interactions may occur. These interactions can cause the body to metabolize the drugs differently than intended. For example, medications such as imipramine and chlorpromazine may cause an additional decrease of awareness in patients. Other possible Ambien drug interactions may include flumazenil, rifampin, and alcohol.

  

Ambien Drug Interactions: An Introduction

Ambien® (zolpidem tartrate) has a number of other medicines that it can potentially interact with. Some possible Ambien drug interactions can include:
 
Imipramine (Tofranil)
When imipramine and Ambien are taken at the same time, patients may have an additional decrease in awareness. To avoid this possible Ambien drug interaction, it is recommended that a person discuss alternatives with his or her healthcare provider prior to taking Ambien.
 
Chlorpromazine (Thor-Prom, Thorazine)
When chlorpromazine and Ambien are taken at the same time, additional decreases in awareness, mental functioning, and coordination may occur. To avoid this possible Ambien drug interaction, it is recommended that a person discuss alternatives with his or her healthcare provider prior to taking Ambien.
 
Alcohol
When alcohol and Ambien are taken at the same time, Ambien may increase the effects of the alcohol. It is therefore recommended that you do not drink alcohol when taking Ambien.
(Ambien Drug Interactions Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;