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Ambien Safety
Although most people tolerate Ambien® (zolpidem tartrate) well, this medication is not suitable for everyone. Before starting treatment with Ambien, make sure you talk to your healthcare provider about any other medical conditions you may have and any other medications you are taking.
For instance, you may not be able to take Ambien safely if you have certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, depression, or certain types of respiratory diseases.
Other safety concerns with Ambien apply to people with certain allergies (including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives) and to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, Ambien can cause certain side effects. Some of the most common side effects of the medication include:
- Daytime drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty with coordination.
(Click Ambien Side Effects and Ambien Precautions and Warnings for a closer look at other safety concerns with Ambien, including information on what to tell your healthcare provider before taking this medication and details about potentially serious side effects that may require immediate medical care.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD