Ambien and Memory Loss

I have to take Ambien for sleep a few times a month and notice that I don't remember certain things that happen after I've taken the Ambien. Is this normal?

Several drugs in this category that work on GABA receptors may produce some alteration in cognition or ability to remember things. These side effects usually subside when the medication has cleared your system. This does not normally present a problem if the medication is taken only when you are assured you will have at least a full eight hours of sleep. Medications do affect people differently though. Many times this has to do with one's ability to clear the medication, which may be related to other medications someone is taking. It may also depend on other medical conditions that are present.

If you have been prescribed the medication by your primary care provider, make sure you review with him/her what factors may be affecting your ability to clear the drug. It may be that halving the dose or taking the least amount of medication to still be effective may present a workable solution. If not, there are other medications that may produce the results you are looking for with fewer side effects.