Ambien (zolpidem) is a prescription sleep medication used to treat short-term insomnia, helping adults fall asleep more quickly when nighttime rest becomes difficult. When prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional, Ambien works by calming overactive brain activity, supporting a smoother transition into sleep. It is often recommended when non-medication approaches—such as improving sleep habits, reducing caffeine intake, or managing stress—have not provided sufficient relief.

The typical adult dosage ranges from 5 mg to 10 mg, taken once nightly right before bed, and only when the user can remain asleep for 7–8 hours. Ambien should be swallowed whole and not combined with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives due to the risk of excessive drowsiness or impaired breathing. Users should never exceed the prescribed dose, as doing so may increase the risk of dependence or next-day impairment. For safe and appropriate use, always follow a doctor’s guidance and schedule regular check-ins to monitor effectiveness.