Brand Names:
Ambien CR
What is it?
Ambien CR is the controlled release form of zolpidem. Part of the medication is released right away to help you fall asleep, and the rest is released throughout the night to keep you asleep.
What’s In It For Me?
Not being able to fall asleep at night can be very annoying. It can also lead to things such as anxiety, depression, weight gain, and loss of energy. This drug has been shown to decrease the amount of time it takes you to fall asleep and increase the amount of time you stay asleep.
The Good
Studies show that Ambien works just as well as other drugs commonly used for sleep (benzodiazepines such as lorazepam) and it MAY be less addicting than other agents.
The Bad
Just like all drugs, Ambien does have some side effects associated with it. There is a lower chance of addiction to Ambien, but it is still a possibility and should not be used for more than 4 weeks at a time without talking to your doctor. Headache has been noted in up to 19% of patients taking Ambien, and dizziness in up to 12%. You want to make sure you have 7-8 hours available to sleep when you take this drug so that you are not drowsy in the morning.
The Controversial
Ambien has definitely been proven to decrease the amount of time it takes you to fall asleep and increase the perceived quality of sleep you get. Studies have shown, however, that there is only a minimal benefit on mood and alertness the following day.
For The Cynic
An estimated 10-15% of the adult population suffers from chronic insomnia. An additional 25-35% have trouble sleeping on an occasional basis. Often times, this is related to our lifestyle. Improved sleep habits may be equally effective without the side effects and addiction potential of medications. See our review on Improving Your Sleep.
The Cost
Ambien CR is not generic yet, so it is still pretty expensive. A months supply may cost up to $200
Zolpidem CR may help for insomnia related to not being able to fall asleep. It is, however, very expensive and changing lifestyle to improve sleep is always preferred.
Written by Chelsea Martin , edited by ProfJameson
Related posts:
- Zolpidem Brand Names: Ambien What is it? Zolpidem is a...
- Improving Your Sleep Sleep Hygiene Ever have trouble getting a good nights sleep?...