Pharmer.org

In April 2007 the US Food and Drug Administration gave approval to several generic companies to manufacture immediate-release zolpidem tartrate (generic Ambien). At this time 15 companies received approval and several are actively marketing the generics.

Zolpidem is a fast and short acting non-benzodiazepine drug used for the treatment of insomnia. Zolpidem is considered a sedative/hypnotic drug and is indicated for short-term treatment of insomnia, generally two weeks. It is a Schedule IV medicine meaning the drug carries a risk of addiction and/or dependence if taken for a long period of time or in larger doses than prescribed.

In March the FDA requested stronger warnings on the sedative/hypnotic class of drugs. Some potential risks are severe allergic reactions or driving while under the influence of these medicines. Less serious problems are also documented - making phone calls, shopping and performing other activities with no recollection of the events later.