A prescription medication, Ambien is a medication that is indicated in the treatment of severe insomnia. This medication has a short half life of just two to three hours so the patient will be able to get out of bed easily after sleep induced by the medication. Ambien was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration and was made available by prescription starting in 2007.
Ambien was approved specifically for the short term treatment of insomnia and is generally prescribed for two to four weeks. The difference between Ambien and other sleep aids is that it does not help the patient fall asleep, rather it helps them maintain sleep so there is no need to worry about not waking up in the morning.
Interestingly, Ambien is often prescribed off label for the treatment of restless leg syndrome. Though it has not been approved for this purpose, many doctors and patients have found that it is both safe and effective in treating restless leg syndrome and gives the relief that patients are looking for.
AmbienLike all medications, Ambien may be associated with some unintended side effects. Common side effects include but are not limited to nausea, vomiting, altered thought patterns, decreased libido, increased appetite, impaired judgment, hallucinations, and even amnesia. Any patients who experience side effects should discuss the pros and cons of continuing to use Ambien or considering other treatment options for insomnia.