The Effects of Ambien: No Laughing Matter

New York Magazine ran an article in their February edition drawing attention to an online community of Ambien users. These users were sharing stories of the things they had done while under the effects of the drug. Though intended to be amusing, the story and the community itself simply serve to illustrate just how dangerous the side effects of the drug can be.

Since the earliest clinical trials, it has been well established that Ambien has some potentially catastrophic side effects, including:

• Sleepwalking and engaging in other, more dangerous behaviors, including driving while sleeping
• Diminished ability to drive lasting up to 24 hours
• Impaired balance linked to significant falls and other injurious behaviors
• Sleep-eating, associated with increased risk of heart disease and diabetes

In the stories shared in New York Magazine, people on Ambien do things like build cabinets or engage in other productive behaviors. At worst, people share stories of awkward texts that might have some effects on their relationships. Overall, the community wants to dwell on the comedic aspect of these stories, rather than the tragedy.

But these incidents are the exception and not the rule. Most people are not going to build furniture while under Ambien’s effects, but are much more likely to wander outside in bad weather or simply fall and break a bone just trying to traverse their house.

If you or someone you love has suffered due to the side effects of Ambien, it is likely clear to you just how defective the design of this drug is. Though treating sleep disorders is important, putting people at risk of serious injury or even death is not the answer. And, downplaying the risks associated with this drug are not helping. Please contact an experienced attorney who can help you fight to ensure the safety of other people being prescribed these medications.