Doctors are expressing concern about the potential impact of Ambien, a sleep medication, on former President Joe Biden’s cognitive function during the 2024 presidential debates, following claims by Hunter Biden that the drug may have contributed to his father’s apparent struggles.
During a recent interview with YouTube host Andrew Callaghan, Hunter Biden suggested that his father’s debate performance could have been exacerbated by the use of Ambien. This medication is known for its use in treating insomnia but has potential side effects, including confusion and cognitive issues in elderly patients.
Medical experts have pointed out that while Ambien is primarily intended for short-term use, its long-term effects on older adults can be significant. They have warned about the drug’s association with increased risks of falls, altered behavior, and memory problems, especially when combined with other substances.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a Fox News medical analyst, stated that Ambien is not a suitable medication for the elderly due to these risks, but emphasized the absence of confirmed evidence linking the drug to Biden’s alleged cognitive impairments. Dr. Michaela Robbins, a nurse practitioner, however, noted that Ambien use could contribute to the type of confusion Biden appeared to experience, particularly in older adults.
Both doctors stressed the importance of thorough medical evaluation and caution when prescribing Ambien to older individuals. They suggested that there are safer alternatives for managing insomnia and preventing cognitive decline in the elderly. Meanwhile, the issue remains a point of public and medical discourse, with no official confirmation of Biden’s medication usage.