Ambien CR: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions and Generic Options Ambien CR is a brand-name drug containing zolpidem tartrate, categorized as a sedative-hypnotic. The drug effectively treats sleep disorders like insomnia, characterized by difficulty in falling or staying asleep. Uses of Ambien CR Ambien CR provides temporary relief from sleep disorders like insomnia, characterized by difficulty in falling or staying asleep. It helps people sleep faster and stay asleep for longer periods of time. Ambien CR belongs to a class of medicines known as sedative-hypnotics that work by slowing down certain brain activities to induce sleep. Dosage Ambien CR is available in oral tablets ranging in strengths from 6.25 to 12.5 mg. Doctors prescribe zolpidem tartrate at varying doses and duration, depending on the severity of the condition and underlying factors like age, weight, and health status. For adults, the recommended dose of Ambien CR is 6.25 mg administered once daily before bed. The dose can increase in increments of 6.25 mg up to 12.5 mg if necessary. Demographic Ambien CR is generally indicated for adults, especially those over 60 years. The drug is not intended for children, adolescents, or pregnant women, as extensive research has not been done on this age group. Side Effects Like any other drug, Ambien CR may cause side effects. The severity of the adverse reactions depends on the individual, the dose administered, and the time taken. Common side effects include: - Dizziness - Fatigue - Drowsiness - Headache - Stomach upsets - Somnolence Some patients may also experience severe side effects, including: - Suicidal thoughts - Disturbed behavior - Memory problems - Agitation - Hallucinations - Depression It is vital to report any adverse reactions to your doctor immediately. Interactions Ambien CR interacts with other drugs that depress the central nervous system. These include: - Sedatives - Anesthetics - Muscle relaxants - Antipsychotic drugs Other drugs may increase the risk of side effects, such as breathing difficulties and drowsiness. They include: - Antihistamines - Painkillers - Anti-anxiety drugs - Anti-depressants - Anticonvulsant drugs Ensure that you inform your doctor of any medication you are taking before starting Ambien CR therapy. Generic Options Like most brand-name drugs, Ambien CR has generic versions available in the market, including: - Zolpidem tartrate, manufactured by a range of pharmaceutical companies - Zolpimist, an oral spray containing zolpidem tartrate - Edluar and Intermezzo sublingual tablets of zolpidem tartrate Generic drugs have the same active ingredients, work the same way, and are as safe and effective as their branded counterparts, all at a fraction of the cost. Conclusion Ambien CR is a popular medication for the treatment of insomnia in adults. It works by slowing down certain activities in the brain to induce sleep. However, like any other drug, it may cause side effects, some of which can be severe. To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, always take the medication as prescribed, report any side effects immediately, and never combine it with other sedative-hypnotic drugs without consulting a primary healthcare provider.