Zolpidem (Ambien) is a prescription sedative-hypnotic (a “Z-drug”) commonly used to treat insomnia. It targets certain GABA receptors in the brain to induce sleep.
Key Points:
- Duration: Short-acting, primarily helpful for initiating sleep.
- Side Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, risk of dependence, and rare behaviors like sleepwalking or sleep-eating.
- Guidelines: Best used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary period to reduce dependence.
- Alternatives: Lifestyle modifications, CBT for insomnia, other non-drug interventions.
