by Nicole Evans M.D.

Created on: March 26, 2010

Ambien is a prescription medication indicated for short term use in individuals with insomnia.  When prescribing Ambien, physicians are wary of the many possible side effects, contraindications and drug interactions.  Yet most physicians do not discuss the possible sexual side effects of Ambien. 

Ambien is the brand name for the generic medication Zolpidem.  The regular formulation, known simply as Ambien, is used for difficulty falling asleep.  The controlled release version, known as Ambien CR, is used for difficulty falling asleep as well as difficulty staying asleep through out the night.

Many medications that create a drowsy, relaxed state will also interfere with sexual ability and/or sexual pleasure.  For example, benzodiazepenes, antidepressants and muscle relaxants can all have sexual side effects.  Ambien, however, does not fall into either of these classes of drugs. 

Ambien is in the class of drugs known as a non-benzodiazepene hypnotic.  As one might expect, a medicine that is in a rather unique class also has some rather interesting side effects.

Individuals taking Ambien may experience side effects that inhibit and suppress sexual activity and enjoyment.  However, other individuals may experience sexual side effects of Ambien that make them dishinhibited and mentally or emotionally labile.

Ambien can cause dizziness, headache and intense sleepiness in over 10% of people.  Ataxia, difficulty making coordinated movements, can occur in 1 to 10% of people.  These side effects can obviously damper one’s sexual ability. 

There are also side effects of Ambien that decrease the ability to experience sexual pleasure.  Some people on Ambien experience a sense of depersonalization, as though they weren’t themselves.  Other individuals experience hypoesthesia, or decreased sensitivity to touch and other sensations.

It is safe to take Viagra with Ambien as no drug interactions have been identified between Viagra (Sildenafil) and Ambien.  However, this is not recommended.  Ambien should be taken just before bed, or when waking in the night, so that the individual may sleep.

Some individuals who take Ambien may have abnormal thinking and behavior changes that manifest sexually.  There is concern that some people may unpredictably experience adverse effects such as decreased inhibition, increased aggression, bizarre behaviors, agitation, and hallucinations.

Ambien has a significant ability to cause a wide variety of sexual side effects.  Individuals should always discuss their questions and concerns with their healthcare provider.

Source:

Lexi-Comp Online. Accessed Mar 25, 2010.

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