Ambien (generic: zolpidem) is a prescription medicine used in adults for the short-term treatment of insomnia (difficulty falling asleep).  Ambien belongs to a group of drugs called hypnotics. It works by slowing down brain activity so you can fall asleep.

Ambien comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth just before bedtime.

Common side effects of Ambien include daytime drowsiness, dizziness, and diarrhea.