How Long Can Ambien CR Be Taken?
Ambien CR is a prescription sleep aid frequently used for the treatment of insomnia or in combination with other prescription medication to treat insomnia side effects. Ambien CR differs from Ambien and other sleep aids in that it is a timed-release medication to allow the user to remain asleep for longer periods. Unlike other sleep aids, it is not considered a part of the benzodiazepine family.
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Features
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Both Ambien and Ambien CR contain zolpidem, a sedative that is used to treat chemical imbalances in the brain that cause insomnia. Ambien has been commercially available with a prescription for nearly two decades.
Differences
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The CR in Ambien CR stands for controlled release. This means that Ambien CR dissolves over a long period to assist insomnia patients in maintaining sleep over eight hours. In this, Ambien CR differs from Ambien. Ambien is an immediate-release drug that helps insomnia patients fall asleep but does not contain time-release properties to help the patient stay asleep.
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Time Frame
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Because Ambien CR is non-narcotic, the Food And Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Ambien CR to be administered to an insomnia patient for however long that patient's doctor deems necessary. This can mean that the drug may be taken long-term. However, a physician may also recommend lifestyle changes to combat insomnia and may see fit to discontinue the use of the drug if she believes the patient no longer needs it.
Misconceptions
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There is a common misconception that long-term use of sleep aids can lead to dependence. Although most sleep aids entail some risk, using Ambien CR as directed, in combination with monitoring by a doctor, can lessen the chances of dependence when using the drug.
Side Effects
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Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the zolpidem in Ambien and Ambien CR. This may include hives, swelling or difficulty breathing. Patients who experience an allergic reaction to Ambien or Ambien CR should discontinue taking it immediately.
Considerations
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Insomnia patients who operate heavy machinery as a part of their work or on a regular basis should take extra care when considering taking Ambien or Ambien CR. Both medications are sleep aids, so they should not be taken unless the patient has seven or eight hours to devote to rest. If a patient is not able to schedule seven to eight hours for rest, that patient should not consider taking Ambien or Ambien CR.
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