Ambien Drug Interactions

When Ambien is taken with certain other medications, interactions may occur. These drug 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 drug interactions with Ambien may include flumazenil, rifampin, and alcohol.

  

Drug Interactions With Ambien: An Introduction

Ambien® (zolpidem tartrate) has a number of other medicines that it can potentially interact with. Some possible drug interactions with Ambien can include:
 

Ambien Drug Interactions Explained

The following sections explain in detail how the drugs mentioned above can cause potentially negative interactions when combined with Ambien.
 
Imipramine (Tofranil)
When imipramine and Ambien are taken at the same time, patients may have an additional decrease in awareness. To avoid this possible 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 interaction, it is recommended that a person discuss alternatives with his or her healthcare provider prior to taking Ambien.
(Ambien Drug Interactions Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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