Have you been having trouble sleeping through the night? If so, it might be time to speak with a healthcare professional about finding solutions.
In some cases, doctors may prescribe Z-drugs like eszopiclone (Lunesta), zaleplon (Sonata), and zolpidem (Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar, and Zolpimist) to help with insomnia. These medications work by slowing down brain activity and can be beneficial for getting a good night’s rest.
However, it is important to understand the risks associated with these drugs. Although they are FDA-approved, like any medication, they come with potential side effects that should not be overlooked.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has required updates on prescription Z-drug labels due to reports of complex sleep behaviors resulting in serious injuries or even death. These behaviors occur while the individual is only partially awake and can include actions like sleepwalking, driving, cooking during sleep, or taking other medications without awareness.
People may not remember these incidents upon waking up the next morning, which highlights why it’s crucial to be cautious when using Z-drugs. It’s also important to note that complex behaviors associated with these drugs can happen even after a first-time dose or continued usage.
Tips for Taking Insomnia Medications
Here are some key points to consider if you’re prescribed a Z-drug:
- Discuss Risks and Benefits: Always talk with your healthcare provider about the pros and cons of using these medications.
- Read Patient Medication Guides: Make sure to read through the guide provided by your pharmacist before starting treatment. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If while taking a Z-drug, you experience complex sleep behaviors like those mentioned above, it’s important to stop using the medication immediately and contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.
- Follow Dosing Instructions: Adhere strictly to the dosing instructions provided by your doctor. It’s not just high doses that can cause these side effects; lower ones can too.
Avoid taking Z-drugs alongside any other sleep medications, including over-the-counter options, and be cautious about alcohol consumption before or during treatment as it increases the risk of experiencing side effects.
- Drive with Caution: Remember that all insomnia medicines can impair your ability to drive or perform tasks requiring alertness the day after taking them. It’s essential to take this into consideration and avoid such activities if necessary.
Lastly, always communicate openly with your healthcare professional regarding any changes in how you feel while on these medications and consider alternative treatment options as recommended by a doctor when appropriate.
