Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using zolpidem as follows:
- Zolpidem intake causes depression of the central nervous system and results in reduced alertness, dizziness, and sleep. Do not take zolpidem along with any other products or medications that also carry a risk for depression of the central nervous system, such as, alcohol, opioid pain medications, such as, hydrocodone and codeine, as they can add to the dizziness and confusion caused by zolpidem. A number of OTC cough medications and antihistamines, muscle relaxant medications, antidepressant medications, antipsychotics, and antianxiety medications, can potentiate the confusion caused by zolpidem and so, must be avoided taking along with zolpidem.
- Some medications, such as, phenytoin and carbamazepine, induce the enzyme systems needed for the metabolism of zolpidem. Concurrent administration of these medications with zolpidem can shorten the duration of zolpidem action, secondary to quickening of zolpidem metabolism, and result in compromised therapeutic benefit, thus shortening the duration of action of zolpidem. If you are being newly started on zolpidem, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with zolpidem. Also, if you have been taking zolpidem for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of zolpidem intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
