Question

Your patient is prescribed Ambien (Zolpidem), a non-benzodiazepine.  She complains of not getting enough sleep the previous night (less than 7 hours).  She is due for her medication at bedtime.  What should the nurse recommend to the patient with regard to this next dose?

Answer 1

Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach after a light meal usually once a night. Since zolpidem works quickly, take it right before you get into bed. Do not take it with or after a meal because it will not work as quickly.

Do not take a dose of this drug unless you have time for a full night's sleep of at least 7 to 8 hours. If you have to wake up before that, you may have some memory lossand may have trouble safely doing any activity that requires alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.