How Does Ambien Work?

What Is Ambien?

Ambien is a brand name of Zolpidem, which is a medication that works to treat insomnia. It is available in two forms: a quick-release form that is helpful for initiating sleep and an extended-release form that is helpful for maintaining sleep. Ambien is a prescription medication and patients should only take it under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Ambien works by activating the neurotransmitter GABA, which slows down the brain and the central nervous system (CNS). GABA is a chemical transmitter in the brain that promotes the activity of GABA receptors, a special type of neurotransmitter. Ambien causes sedative effects by enhancing the effects of GABA. The drug is used to treat insomnia and is available in two forms: a quick-release form that is helpful for initiating sleep and an extended-release form that is helpful for maintaining sleep.

The immediate-release tablet dissolves right away, helping you fall asleep fast, while the extended-release version has two layers — the first helps you fall asleep, and the second dissolves slowly to help you stay asleep. Ambien’s effects begin 30 minutes after oral administration and last for several hours. However, Ambien is only intended for short-term use and should not be used for more than seven to ten days.

What is the recommended dosage for Ambien?

The recommended dosage for Ambien varies depending on factors such as age, gender, and medical conditions. Here is a summary of the recommended dosages based on the search results:

1. Immediate-Release Ambien:

For adults (18-64 years old):

Women: The recommended initial dose is 5 mg, taken once per night immediately before bedtime. The maximum dose should not exceed 10 mg once daily.

Men: The recommended initial dose is either 5 mg or 10 mg, taken once per night immediately before bedtime. The maximum dose should not exceed 10 mg once daily.

For elderly or debilitated patients:

The recommended dose is 5 mg once daily immediately before bedtime.

For patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment:

The recommended dose is 5 mg once daily immediately before bedtime. Avoid Ambien use in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

2. Extended-Release Ambien CR:

For adults (18-64 years old):

Women: The recommended dose is 6.25 mg, taken once just before bedtime. The maximum recommended dosage is 12.5 mg once daily.

Men: The recommended dose is 6.25 mg, taken once just before bedtime. The maximum recommended dosage is 12.5 mg once daily.

For adults (65 years and older):

The recommended dose is 5 mg once daily before bedtime.

It’s important to note that you should take Ambien as a single dose and should not take readministered during the same night. The total dose of Ambien should not exceed the recommended maximum dosage. It’s always best to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Ambien and Alcohol

Mixing Ambien and alcohol can be dangerous and should be avoided. Here are some key points from the search results:

Ambien and alcohol both affect the central nervous system (CNS) and work on the same GABA receptors in the brain, increasing the effects of both substances.
The combined effects of Ambien and alcohol can intensify the sedative and depressant effects, leading to serious physical problems such as dizziness, sleepiness, disorientation, confusion, hallucinations, slowed breathing, impaired motor control, unusual behavior, and memory problems.
Mixing Ambien and alcohol can increase the risk of overdose, where heart rate and breathing slow down and potentially stop altogether.
Both Ambien and alcohol are classified as depressants and have sedating effects on the mind and body. Mixing them can create exponential depressant effects, making the combination unsafe.
Medical professionals strongly advise against mixing Ambien and alcohol due to the potential risks and dangers involved.
Combining any amount of Ambien and alcohol is considered unsafe and can lead to overdose and death.
Side effects of mixing Ambien and alcohol include increased drowsiness, impaired coordination, memory problems, and other adverse effects.

It is important to note that these are general guidelines and individual responses to Ambien and alcohol can vary. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations regarding the use of Ambien and alcohol.