Ambien, aka Zolpidem Tartrate, is a popular medication used to treat insomnia and related sleep disorders.
The prescription drug has been at the center of strange behavior due to possible side effects, including celebrity tweets and even crimes. We explore strange behaviors associated with this drug and treatments for prescription pill addiction.
How Does Ambien Work?
Ambien works by slowing the brain, binding GABA neurotransmitters to GABA receptors in the brain, which produces a calming effect. This is the same region affected by other benzodiazepines like Xanax, but Ambien is a sedative-hypnotic. [1] The drug promotes sleep by depressing the central nervous system with the goal of helping users get to sleep faster and achieve more restful sleep.
What Are the Side Effects of Ambien?
The drug has been linked to strange behavior, with some users facing side effects. The most common side effects of Ambien are dizziness and an upset stomach. More severe side effects, which have been reported in less than 1% of users, include performing complex behaviors (driving a car, making a meal, sleepwalking) without memory of the incident. [2] Other side effects of Ambien may include: [3]
- Daytime Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Headaches
- Behavior Changes
- Mood Changes
In the infamous Rosanne Ambien tweets from 2018, the actress tweeted racist remarks and attributed those tweets to Ambien intoxication. [4] “It was 2 in the morning and I was Ambien tweeting-it,” the actress said.
Is Ambien Addictive?
Ambien is not necessarily addictive, but any prescription pill carries dangers of addiction. Those who are struggling with addiction to sedative-hypnotics or benzos need to start their recovery with the help of a professional detox center.
At Banyan, we operate a family of addiction treatment centers providing services to help patients find long-lasting sobriety. Call 888-280-4763 to learn more.
Sources:
- Huffington Post – The Disturbing Site Effect of Ambien
- ABC News – What is Ambien and what are its known side effects?
- Women’s Health – 10 Side Effects of Ambien that are Actually Pretty Terrifying
- Fox News – Roseanne Barr not first celeb to claim Ambien led to bizarre behavior: What is the insomnia drug?
