Zolpidem a is hypnotic drug used for short-term treatment of people with insomnia.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid:Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this
medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)*
L-tryptophan*
Depletion or interference
None known
Side effect reduction/prevention
None known
Supportive interaction
None known
Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability
None known
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
5-Hydroxytryptophan
(5-HTP) and L-tryptophan
Nine cases of zolpidem-induced hallucinations associated with serotonin reuptake inhibiting
antidepressants have been reported, some lasting for several hours.1 5-HTP and
L-tryptophan are converted to serotonin in the brain, and taking them with zolpidem may
increase zolpidem-induced hallucinations, though no interactions have yet been reported with
zolpidem and 5-HTP or L-tryptophan.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Food may interfere with zolpidem absorption and slow the onset of sleep.2 Zolpidem
should be taken one hour before or two hours after food to avoid this interaction.
Alcohol
Zolpidem causes drowsiness. Alcohol may compound this effect and increase the risk of
accidental injury.3 To prevent problems, people taking zolpidem should avoid
alcohol.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Elko CJ, Burgess JL, Robertson WO. Zolpidem-associated hallucinations
and serotonin reuptake inhibition: a possible interaction. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol
1998;36:195–203.
2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Sedatives and
Hypnotics, Nonbarbiturate, Imidazopyridines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug
Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1993, 269h–9m.
3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Sedatives And
Hypnotics, Nonbarbiturate, Imidazopyridines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug
Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1993, 269h–9m.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience,
or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur
in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over
the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist
for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in
prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.
