Report finds spike in ER visits tied to sleep medication

{mosads}The FDA was particularly concerned about women, whose adverse reactions to zolpidem have risen substantially in the last several years.

SAMHSA reported that half of all ER visits tied to zolpidem in 2010 involved another drug.

The agency warned that anti-anxiety medications and narcotic pain relievers “dangerously enhance” the sedative effects of drugs like Ambien.

“Although short-term sleeping medications can help patients, it is exceedingly important that they be carefully used and monitored,” said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde in a statement.

“Physicians and patients need to be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with any medication, and work closely together to prevent or quickly address any problems that may arise.”