This article describes zolpidem oral tablet’s dosages and strengths and gives details on how to take it. You’ll also find information on cost savings and coupon options for zolpidem. If you want to know more about zolpidem oral tablet, see this overview article. It covers details about the drug’s uses and side effects, and more.
Zolpidem oral tablet is a generic version of the brand-name drugs Ambien and Edluar. Zolpidem also comes in an extended-release oral tablet (“extended release” means the drug is slowly released into your body over a long period of time), a sublingual tablet (a tablet that dissolves under your tongue), and an oral capsule, but these forms aren’t described in this article. To learn more about these forms, talk with your doctor.
Boxed warning: Risk of unusual sleep behaviors
Zolpidem has a boxed warning for the risk of unusual sleep behaviors. This includes sleepwalking, sleep-driving, and other activities performed while sleeping. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
For details, see the “Dosage of zolpidem” section below. See the end of this article for more information about this warning.
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Form and strengths of zolpidem
Zolpidem oral tablet comes as follows:
- Form: oral tablet, which you’ll take by swallowing
- Strengths: 5 milligrams (mg) and 10 mg
Dosage of zolpidem
This article describes the recommended dosages for zolpidem oral tablet. The drugmaker provides these dosages.
If your doctor prescribes this medication, you should follow the dosage they prescribe. Your doctor will determine the dosage that best meets your needs. Do not change your dosage of zolpidem oral tablet without your doctor’s recommendation.
Usual recommended dosages of zolpidem in adults
Usually, doctors start by prescribing a low dosage of zolpidem oral tablet. Then, they’ll adjust it over time until the right dosage is reached. Ultimately, your doctor will prescribe the smallest dosage of zolpidem oral tablet that gives the desired outcome.
Dosage for difficulty falling asleep
- Starting dosage for females*: 5 mg
- Starting dosage for males*: 5 mg or 10 mg
- Maximum dosage: 10 mg
*Note: Sex and gender exist on spectrums. In this article, we use the terms “male” and “female” to refer to a person’s sex assigned at birth.
Dosage adjustments for zolpidem
Your doctor will prescribe a dosage of zolpidem oral tablet based on several factors. These include:
- your gender assigned at birth
- your age
- other health conditions you may have
Missed dose of zolpidem
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about what to do if you forget to take your zolpidem oral tablet dose. You should only take zolpidem oral tablet if you have at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep time before you plan to wake up.
For tips on how to plan your doses of zolpidem oral tablet and avoid missing a dose, read this article. You could also try:
- downloading a reminder app on your phone
- setting an alarm
- putting a note where you’ll see it, such as on your calendar, bathroom mirror, or bedside table
Frequently asked questions
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about zolpidem oral tablet and its dosage.
Is it safe to take 15 mg or 20 mg of zolpidem?
Zolpidem oral tablet is approved by the FDA for a maximum daily dose of 10 mg. The safety of a 15–20 mg dose of zolpidem has not been established for use. You should only take the dosage your doctor prescribes you. Taking too much can lead to severe drowsiness or coma. In some cases, life threatening outcomes have been reported.
Speak with your doctor if you have questions about what dosage of zolpidem is best for you.
How does the dosage of zolpidem in females compare with the dosage in males?
The dosage of zolpidem in females tends to be lower compared with the dosage in males. This is because women tend to clear zolpidem from their bodies at a much slower rate. So, the amount of drug in their body is a lot higher when given the same dose as men.
Speak with your doctor if you have questions about how zolpidem oral tablet affects females and males differently.
Note: Sex and gender exist on spectrums. In this article, we use the terms “male” and “female” to refer to a person’s sex assigned at birth.
Is zolpidem taken long term?
No, doctors don’t typically prescribe zolpidem oral tablet as a long-term treatment. Instead, it’s usually recommended for short-term use.
If you have questions about how long you should use zolpidem oral tablet, talk with your doctor.
Is there a risk of dependence or withdrawal with zolpidem?
Yes. The risk of dependence or withdrawal with zolpidem increases as your dose and duration increase. This is why the lowest dose and shortest duration are recommended. Your risk of dependence increases if you have a history of alcohol or drug misuse. So, use caution when taking zolpidem oral tablet.
Withdrawal symptoms include mild discomfort, insomnia, stomach or muscle cramps, nausea/vomiting, sweating, and tremors.
If you have questions or concerns about potential dependence or withdrawal with zolpidem, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How zolpidem is taken
You’ll swallow zolpidem oral tablet once immediately prior to bedtime.
If it’s hard for you to swallow tablets, view this article. It provides suggestions on how to swallow medications that come in pill form.
Also, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you’re having difficulty taking your medication. They can offer recommendations about taking it.
Zolpidem coupon
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Note: Optum Perks coupons cannot be used with insurance copays or benefits.
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