Posts — Ambien

Ambien (zolpidem) is one of the most commonly prescribed short-term medications for insomnia in the United States. It works by enhancing the calming effects of GABA in the brain, helping individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep more consistently. This article explains how Ambien works, its potential benefits, important risks to consider, and essential safety guidelines for use—along with evidence-based alternatives such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Learn when Ambien may be appropriate and why medical supervision is critical for safe and effective treatment.

Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder that often requires a combination of behavioral interventions and, when appropriate, pharmacologic therapy. This guide provides an evidence-based overview of the most commonly used medications for insomnia, including benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, select antidepressants, and melatonin receptor agonists. It outlines their mechanisms of action, clinical indications, potential risks, and considerations for safe and effective use in the management of sleep disturbances.