Ambien is a brand name for the medication zolpidem, which is primarily used to treat insomnia, particularly difficulty falling asleep. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics, and it works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with sleep problems.
Ambien is typically prescribed for short-term use and is meant to be taken just before bedtime. It helps people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It's important to follow the dosage and usage instructions provided by a healthcare professional closely, as misuse or overuse of Ambien can lead to dependency, tolerance, and other health risks.