The brand name for zolpidem, Ambien is a prescription medication used to treat insomnia in adults. Ambien is a sedative, nonbenzodiazepine “Z drug.” Z drugs act similarly to benzodiazepines but are chemically different.
Ambien is usually prescribed for short-term use, and with good reason – like benzodiazepines, it’s addictive. It’s also easy to build up a tolerance to it, meaning someone will have to take more Ambien to feel the same effects. It’s possible to overdose on Ambien, too. Ambien abuse is often a part of polydrug abuse, which is exceptionally dangerous.
Ambien withdrawal can be difficult and medically dangerous. Recovering from Ambien abuse is best done under clinical supervision at a detox center.
