Originally Posted by
zigzagg900
There's no direct relationship between Ambien and DVT (deep vein thrombosis), i.e. it's not an adverse effect. The concern is the lack of movement while asleep. If you're lying on a flat-bed seat, that's fine. However, if you're stuck in sardine class, you may be scrunched up with legs in a bent position for hours while you're under the effects of the medication. This is what increases the risk for DVT.
Exactly. I don't think you need an MD (or any degree) to understand the concept.
Taking ambien doesn't ensure you will get DVT, but sleeping for hours in a cramped position with blood pooling in your legs will greatly increase the risk. See
http://www.preventdvt.org/ for more information. According to this website, more than 300,000 people per year die from pulmonary embolisms. They get off the plane and - boom - they're dead.