11 Of The Weirdest Things That Happened to People Taking Ambien

Ambien, also known by its generic name, Zolpidem, is a popular prescription medication used to treat insomnia. While it’s highly effective in helping people get a good night’s sleep, it has also become notorious for its bizarre side effects. Here are some of the strangest experiences reported by Ambien users, the science behind the drug, and its potential risks.

1. Driving to the Store for Whipped Cream

One individual reported that they drove to a store in their sleep and bought whipped cream, only to have no memory of the event the next day. Sleep driving is one of the more dangerous side effects of Ambien and has been documented in various case reports.¹

2. Conversing with a Cartoon Character

Another user swore they had a conversation with “David the Gnome” throughout the night. Hallucinations, especially involving familiar or comforting figures, are not uncommon for those under the influence of Ambien.

3. Buying a $2,000 Guitar Amp Online

Online shopping while asleep can lead to unexpected purchases. One Ambien user found themselves $2,000 poorer after purchasing a guitar amp online, having no recollection of doing so.

4. Floating Above the Bed

Some Ambien users report out-of-body experiences. One person was convinced they floated above their bed and across the room, a vivid hallucination triggered by the drug.

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5. Stealing Ice Cream from a Neighbor

A man reported sneaking into his neighbor’s house to eat ice cream despite not even liking ice cream. This peculiar behavior is a prime example of Ambien-induced sleepwalking.

6. Reconnecting a Telephone

In another strange episode, a user moved a telephone from one room to another and connected it correctly to the answering machine, all while asleep.

7. Folding Laundry

Waking up to neatly folded laundry at the foot of their bed, one user realized they had completed the chore in their sleep. This type of sleep activity, while benign, is an indication of the profound effects Ambien can have.

8. Digging a Hole in the Septum

A disturbing account involved someone digging into their nose, thinking spiders had crawled in. Self-harm incidents like these are rare but serious side effects of the medication.

9. Seeing Rippling Furniture

Visual distortions are also reported. One user described seeing furniture rippling, a clear sign of Ambien-induced hallucinations.

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10. Checking for Intruders

A woman repeatedly got up to look out the window, convinced that someone was in the house, which terrified her husband. This paranoid behavior showcases Ambien’s potential to induce intense and irrational fears.

11. Making Guacamole

Finally, a user found themselves making guacamole in the middle of the night with no memory of the event. Food preparation, often without the user’s knowledge or recollection, is a well-documented side effect.

Understanding Ambien: More Than Just a Sleep Aid

Ambien works by slowing down brain activity to allow sleep. It’s typically prescribed for short-term use, helping individuals who struggle with falling asleep due to stress or sudden schedule changes.²

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: The most common side effect, often leading to grogginess the next day.
• Dizziness: This can make users feel unsteady and increase the risk of falls.
• Nausea: Some users experience stomach issues when taking Ambien.

Serious Risks

• Sleepwalking and Sleep Activities: Including driving, eating, and even having sex.³
• Abnormal Thinking and Behavior: Such as aggression, agitation, and hallucinations.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Including nausea, vomiting, and seizures when the drug is stopped suddenly.

While millions have taken Ambien without serious issues, its potential for bizarre and dangerous behaviors cannot be ignored. The FDA has issued warnings about the risks of complex sleep behaviors.

Conclusion

Ambien can be a lifesaver for those with chronic insomnia, but it’s crucial to be aware of its potential side effects. If you or someone you know is experiencing unusual behaviors while taking Ambien, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Always use Ambien as directed, and ensure that you have a full night’s sleep ahead to minimize the risk of next-day drowsiness or other side effects.

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