Generic Name: zolpidem

Before taking zolpidem, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

• itraconazole (Sporanox);

• rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater);

• antidepressants such as imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), or sertraline (Zoloft); or

• narcotic pain medications, muscle relaxers, seizure medications, or anti-anxiety medications.

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use zolpidem, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect zolpidem. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Zolpidem may cause a severe allergic reaction. Stop taking zolpidem and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using zolpidem and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• worsening sleep problems;

• depressed mood, thoughts of hurting yourself;

• unusual risk-taking behavior, decreased inhibitions, no fear of danger;

• aggression, feeling agitated;

• hallucinations, confusion, loss of personality.

Continue taking zolpidem and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

• daytime drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, feeling "drugged" or light-headed;

• weakness, lack of coordination;

• amnesia, forgetfulness;

• vivid or abnormal dreams;

• diarrhea, nausea, vomiting;

• headache, muscle pain; or

• blurred vision.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.