Ambien in Spotlight: Did Sleep Drug Impact Joe Biden’s 2024 Debate Performance?

In a startling revelation, Hunter Biden recently suggested that his father, former President Joe Biden, might have been under the influence of the sleep aid Ambien during his widely criticized performance in the 2024 presidential debate. Speaking on a YouTube show, Hunter painted a picture of an 81-year-old man, exhausted from global travel, given medication to rest, only to appear dazed and disoriented on a national stage. This has sparked a heated discussion about the appropriateness of such drugs for the elderly, especially someone in a position as demanding as the presidency.

Ambien, or zolpidem, is a prescription drug for insomnia, meant for short-term use. Its side effects, however, are no small matter—drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and even memory issues are common. For older adults, the risks are amplified, with potential falls and cognitive impairment, including a noted link to increased dementia risk in long-term users. Medical experts have weighed in, expressing concern over its use in the geriatric population. One doctor emphasized that Ambien is far from ideal for seniors due to its potential to cause confusion or even hallucinations.

The timing of such a medication raises eyebrows. If taken the night before, it should theoretically wear off by morning. Taking it closer to a high-stakes event like a debate, however, would be ill-advised and unlikely recommended by any physician. Beyond the specifics of this case, the broader issue is clear: medications like Ambien can pose serious risks for older adults, particularly when combined with other substances or health conditions.

This incident, whether fully verified or not, shines a light on a critical public health concern—how we manage care and medication for aging leaders and citizens alike. It’s a reminder that exhaustion and health challenges don’t discriminate, even at the highest levels of power. As the debate over Joe Biden’s performance lingers, so too does the question: are we doing enough to prioritize safer alternatives for sleep and wellness in our aging population?