Taking zolpidem with other medicines and herbal supplements

Some medicines and zolpidem can affect each other and increase your chance of having side effects. Certain medicines may increase the drowsy (sedating) effects of zolpidem.

Speak to a doctor or a pharmacist before starting to take zolpidem if you take any of these medicines:

• drowsy antihistamines such as chlorphenamine or promethazine
• medicines to treat schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
• medicines to treat depression
• medicines for epilepsy
• medicines to calm or reduce anxiety
• medicines for sleep problems
• ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic to treat bacterial infections
• medicines used to treat fungal infections, such as ketoconazole or itraconazole
• ritonavir, a medicine used to treat HIV infections
• strong painkillers such as codeine, methadone, morphine, oxycodone, pethidine or tramadol

Do not take any herbal remedies that make you feel sleepy while taking zolpidem.

These can increase the drowsy (sedating) effects of your medicine.

There's not enough information to say that other complementary medicines, herbal remedies and supplements are safe to take with zolpidem. They're not tested in the same way as pharmacy and prescription medicines. They're generally not tested for the effect they have on other medicines.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.