Ambien is one of the more commonly used drugs in the world, used for sleep and insomnia. It is a type of drug known as “sedative-hypnotic,” meaning that it is used to relax you and deal with insomnia.
However, Ambien is a powerful drug with the potential for abuse, and this is something that must be considered before its use.
How long does Ambien stay in your system?
The answer to this question varies, depending on the way that tests are conducted. Fortunately, Ambien is a relatively fast-acting drug and one that leaves your body quickly.
- Ambien can be detected via blood tests for 6-20 hours.
- Ambien is detected in urine for 1-2 days after you take it.
- Ambien can be found in hair tests for up to five weeks; hair tests are usually the longest lasting way of determining drug use.
| Test | Saliva | Blood | Urine | Hair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Time | 8 hour | 6-20 hours | 1-2 days | 5 weeks |
How long until you feel the effects of Ambien, and what are its side effects?
The good news for Ambien users is that it is relatively fast-acting. Most people feel the effects of Ambien in no more than thirty minutes. Ambien’s half-life is 1.5 hours, meaning that half of the drug disappears in an hour and a half.
However, as you can see above, that does not mean that Ambien’s effects won’t be felt on your body for more extended periods. Indeed, Ambien is known for some powerful side effects, including feeling drowsy and drugged, nightmares, sleepwalking, hallucinations, a lack of coordination, and more. As such, people who take Ambien should do so with extreme caution and prepare for the potential of these impacts.
