Ambien (zolpidem tartrate), the nation's best-selling prescription sleeping pill, is showing up with regularity as a factor in traffic arrests, sometimes involving drivers who later say they were sleep-driving and have no memory of taking the wheel after taking the drug.
Many of the dangerous side effects of Ambien involve parasomnia, a condition of semi-consciousness, in which someone performs waking activities without being conscious. The most well-known parasomnia behavior is sleepwalking. However, many people will also take part in other sleep behaviors, including eating, driving, and having sex.
Ambien's maker, Sanofi-Aventis , says the drug's record of use in this country shows it is safe when taken as directed. However, lawsuits have been filed alleging that patients were not made fully aware of the possible side effects.
If you or a loved one were prescribed Ambien and experienced any adverse effects, contact us today to determine if you may have a personal injury claim.