Ambien is in a class of drugs called sedative/hypnotics or sleep medications. Ambien affects chemicals in your brain that may become unbalanced and cause insomnia.

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Ambien induces sleep and causes relaxation. It is used to treat sleep disorders such as trouble falling asleep, waking up many times during the night, or waking up too early in the morning. Ambien is for short-term use only--usually 7 to 10 days. Longer-term use must be monitored closely by a doctor.

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Ambien may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Ambien is closely related to a family of drugs called benzodiazepines. These drugs cause sedation, muscle relaxation, act as anti-convulsants (anti-seizure), and have anti-anxiety properties.

DRUG TIME CHART

ZOLPIDEM (Ambien®) is a sedative-type drug that helps to relieve insomnia (sleeplessness). Trouble falling asleep, waking up too early in the morning, or waking up too often during the night are symptoms of insomnia. Zolpidem helps treat these problems with sleep, and is usually used for no longer than a few days to a few weeks.

Ambien is a Schedule IV controlled substance available in 5- and 10-mg tablets. A Schedule IV drug has a low potential for abuse relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule III. A Schedule IV drug has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. Also, a Schedule IV drug may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule III.
Patients who abuse prescription sleep aids such as Ambien may form an addiction. Individuals with a history of drug addiction or substance abuse are at increased risk for habituation and Ambien addiction. Therefore, they should be under careful surveillance when taking any hypnotic such as Ambien.