Q. I was prescribed Ambien for insomnia about two months ago. It works great, but I developed severe bloating and belching. I couldn’t believe the constant heartburn! Nothing helped.
Yesterday I came across your Web site and found other people who also discovered that Ambien caused them bad reflux.
I didn’t take the Ambien last night and I am already feeling much better. I didn’t sleep, though. Do you have any suggestions for insomnia that won’t trigger heartburn?
A. Heartburn (dyspepsia) is listed as a side effect of Ambien (zolpidem). Dozens of readers have shared similar stories.
Fortunately, there are many other prescription and non-drug solutions to insomnia. We are sending you our guides to Getting a Good Night’s Sleep and Digestive Disorders for much more detail. You may find magnesium, melatonin or acupressure helpful.
