From the Guidelines
I strongly advise against taking more than 10 mg of Ambien (zolpidem) in a 24-hour period, as this is the maximum recommended dose. According to the clinical guideline for the evaluation and management of chronic insomnia in adults 1, the recommended dosage for zolpidem is 10 mg taken once daily immediately before bedtime, with a maximum dose of 10 mg per 24 hours. Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to serious side effects, including severe drowsiness, confusion, breathing problems, and even overdose.
Some key points to consider when taking Ambien include:
- Administration on an empty stomach to maximize effectiveness
- Avoiding combination with alcohol, other sedatives, and sleep restriction
- Caution in patients with signs/symptoms of depression, compromised respiratory function, or hepatic heart failure
- Downward dosage adjustment in the elderly
It's essential to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with your healthcare provider if you're finding that your current dose isn't effective for your sleep issues. They can evaluate your situation and consider alternative treatments or adjustments to your current regimen. The FDA has also recommended caution regarding adverse effects associated with BzRA hypnotics, including reports of disruptive sleep-related behaviors such as sleepwalking, eating, driving, and sexual behavior 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The total dose of zolpidem tartrate tablets should not exceed 10 mg once daily immediately before bedtime. Zolpidem tartrate tablets should be taken as a single dose and should not be readministered during the same night. The maximum amount of Ambien (zolpidem) that can be taken in 24 hours is 10 mg, and it should be taken as a single dose before bedtime. 2
From the Research
Dosage Information
- The recommended dosage of zolpidem is 10 mg at bedtime, with a maximum dose of 10 mg per 24 hours 3.
- For elderly patients, the recommended dose is 5 mg at bedtime 3.
- There is no specific information on the maximum amount of Ambien that can be taken in 24 hours, but it is generally recommended to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary 4, 5, 6, 7.
Safety Considerations
- Zolpidem has been associated with an increased risk of falls, hip fractures, and other adverse effects, particularly in elderly patients 4.
- The use of zolpidem has also been linked to complex behaviors, such as sleepwalking, sleep-driving, and hallucinations 4, 5.
- Zolpidem can cause dependence and abuse, particularly in patients with a history of substance abuse or psychiatric illness 5.