If you’ve ever wondered if Ambien or zolpidem could damage your heart, then you’re not alone. A recent study in the British Medical Journal reported 638 deaths among ambien users, compared to just 295 in those who didn’t take the drug. This result is alarming, especially considering the fact that a sleeping pill has an 80% success rate in getting people to fall asleep.
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Can Ambien damage your heart?
A new study has linked the popular sleeping pill Ambien to cardiovascular problems. This medication is sold as Ambien in the US and Stilnoct in the UK. The study, published in the British Medical Journal, looked at over 5,000 people who had suffered from heart attacks and compared them to 20,000 healthy adults. They found that a person taking four standard dose pills a year increased their risk of a heart attack by 20%. However, if a person took 60 tablets a year, the threat doubled.
Ambien is similar to other benzodiazepines, so it’s important to avoid combining Ambien with alcohol or other depressants. The combination can cause sedation and even death. It’s best to consult a doctor if you suspect an overdose and discontinue Ambien immediately.
Ambien’s effect on the heart is a result of how it affects gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is produced in the brain and acts like a natural tranquilizer by slowing down the central nervous system and enhancing relaxation. Over time, however, Ambien can lead to tolerance, which makes it difficult for the drug to work in normal doses. Consequently, people who abuse Ambien may begin to take higher doses, use it more frequently, and even mix it with other drugs.
Can zolpidem cause heart attack?
The sleep aid zolpidem is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. It is known under the brand names Stilnoct and Ambien in the US and the UK. A study from the China Medical University looked at 5,000 people who had suffered a heart attack and compared them to 20,000 healthy people. The researchers found that zolpidem users were more likely to have suffered a heart attack than non-users. The risk was doubled in those who took the sleeping pill on a weekly basis, and the danger could increase if the pill was used for a long time.
Although zolpidem is considered safe for most people, it is not recommended to take it if you have a history of heart problems or liver disease. It is also not recommended to take this drug if you are pregnant. It can reach the baby’s bloodstream in minute amounts.
Can sleeping pill cause heart attack?
Taking sleeping pills is not uncommon, but a new study shows they can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. The study looked at a common sleeping pill, zolpidem, which is available as Ambien in the US and Stilnoct in the UK. Researchers from China Medical University analyzed the data of 5,000 heart attack survivors and compared it to the data of 20,000 healthy adults. They found that taking four standard dose tablets per week increased your risk of a heart attack by 20%, while taking 60 tablets a year, increased the risk by 50%.
What are the long term effects of taking Ambien?
Ambien works by altering levels of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, in the brain. GABA is produced naturally by the brain and acts as a natural tranquilizer, slowing down the functioning of the central nervous system and promoting relaxation. Over time, however, people may develop a tolerance for the drug and need higher doses to maintain the desired effects. This can lead to physical dependence on the drug and result in addiction.
The drug affects the brain’s ability to form new memories, and may cause memory problems. However, clinically significant memory loss from Ambien use is uncommon. Most patients will experience some memory impairment, which will diminish as soon as the medication is stopped. While these effects are temporary and generally disappear after stopping Ambien use, the drug may increase the risk of dementia in the elderly. Therefore, the recommended dosage for elderly people is half that of adults.
Ambien withdrawal symptoms usually begin 48 hours after the last dose, but in some cases they may occur earlier. Withdrawal symptoms are often accompanied by insomnia, confusion, mood swings, and shakiness. Some individuals may even experience seizures. Professional Ambien detox services can minimize the risks and ease the symptoms associated with withdrawal from Ambien. Although the detox process is not a substitute for substance abuse treatment, it serves as a bridge to a successful substance abuse treatment program.
Is it OK to take Ambien every night?
Ambien is a prescription sleep aid that can be used to help you sleep. However, this drug does not come without risks. Long-term use may cause the body to develop a tolerance to the drug, which can be dangerous. You must speak with your doctor to determine the right dosage for you.
There are several possible side effects associated with Ambien, including drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. It can also make people unable to stand up straight or walk well. It may also lead to changes in appetite, memory loss, and heavy menstrual bleeding. If you develop any of these side effects, you should stop taking Ambien immediately and seek medical attention.
If you’re taking Ambien every night, you should talk to your doctor. This medication is addictive and should not be taken without consulting your physician. You should avoid taking it if you suffer from breathing problems or are on other CNS depressants.
Why is zolpidem a high risk medication?
Zolpidem is a common sleeping pill that can cause drowsiness. However, it carries a high risk of adverse reactions. While some of these reactions are serious, many are not. The FDA has revised the labeling for this medication to ensure it is safe for patients.
The dosage of zolpidem varies. Adults should not take more than 10 mg once a day. For elderly people, females, or people at high risk of falls, the dosage may be lower. It is also available in extended-release tablets, which contain 6.25 mg or 12.5 mg.
Although zolpidem is generally safe for use in adults, it should not be used during pregnancy. It crosses the placenta and can cause respiratory depression in neonates. However, these effects are rare and most neonates recover on their own within hours.
Another reason why zolpidem is a high risk medication is that it can affect people differently than typical benzodiazepines. While it is effective for treating insomnia, it can cause a variety of undesirable side effects. Some individuals may experience abnormal thinking, drowsiness, and even sedation. Others may have difficulty driving or operating machinery. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these side effects.
What are the dangers of taking zolpidem?
When taken to reduce the risk of a heart attack, zolpidem can have side effects, including drowsiness and dizziness. It may also cause nausea and vomiting. It may also cause you to lose your concentration and may make you more prone to falls. You should contact your physician if you experience any of these side effects.
Zolpidem is not recommended for people with liver disease, as this condition may make it more difficult for the liver to process the drug. This could cause the drug to accumulate in the blood, which increases the risk of side effects. It can also cause a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy, which affects the brain and can cause confusion and forgetfulness. Because of this, it is important to discuss your prescription with your doctor and follow all dosage instructions.
Zolpidem can also cause dangerous side effects, including impaired memory, delirium, and confused thinking. In fact, one study found a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease in people who regularly take zolpidem. In addition, the drug may also cause violent behavior, such as homicides. This is an ongoing concern, especially with its widespread use.
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