Ambien, prescribed chiefly as a soporific drug, contains Zolpidem. It is not a drug that can be prescribed for a long period because of its habit-forming properties. Let us take a look at how much Ambien is tolerably allowed, and when is Ambien consumption considered to be over the limit. The tablet is available in 5mg and 10mg strengths – both in immediate release and extended release forms. Extended release tablets should not be crushed and taken, because this precipitates the release, and the effects can be felt earlier than desired. In fact, the effects can be similar to those of an Ambien overdose.
The recommended dose of Ambien is one dose of 10mg everyday to be taken before going to bed. Taken above this quantity, the risk of side effects increases. You may face health issues if the dose touches 70 mg at one time. It is possible to overdose on Ambien. A dose of 400 mg or above could cause serious problems, but is still a non-fatal dose. It won’t cause any permanent damage, but the unpleasant side effects are best avoided.
At doses of 2000 mg and above, fatalities become a distinct possibility.
Ambien is dangerous because on consumption, brain activity slows down. Its sedative nature can exacerbate certain conditions. The possibility of addiction is high.
The slowing down of brain functions, although helpful for insomniacs, can lead to drowsiness or dizziness. It is particularly dangerous for those with lung conditions and breathing related illnesses. Excessive drowsiness can cause the subject to lose consciousness and possibly slip into coma.
Ambien should not be taken with alcohol or other drugs that can lead to sleepiness. The FDA warns against prescribing Ambien for people who are into substance abuse, have a history of psychological illness, liver disease, are pregnant, or suffer depressive and suicidal thoughts.
Ambien can also induce people to sleepwalk and engage in dangerous activities in this state. These activities include driving a car, cooking, eating, walking, and talking on the phone. If you’ve done any of these and have no recollection of your actions, then you need to talk to your doctor about it.
Serious complications that may arise out of Ambien consumption even in normal doses include anxiety, poor concentration, pain the limbs, difficulty in remembering things, tremors, and suicidal thoughts.
If you feel that you have overdosed on Ambien, then immediately call your physician. If you’re with somebody who you suspect has overdosed on Ambien, then call 911 immediately.
If you take Ambien in doses larger than prescribed or in ways other than prescribed, then you risk overdosing on this hypnotic drug. Addicts who snort or inject Ambien may accidently overdose on the drug.
It is difficult to obtain enough Ambien for a fatal overdose. Treatment with Ambien rarely goes beyond 10 days. Overdosing is more likely to result in toxic accumulation of the drug in the body, and accompanying effects.
If you’ve been prescribed Ambien and wish to learn more about its correct use, then The Villa Treatment Center can answer your questions. If you know somebody who abuses Ambien, then we can help the person get rid of the addiction. Call us. 1-818-639-7160