Ambien Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
Ambien is a sedative drug commonly prescribed to treat insomnia. While generally safe when taken as prescribed, Ambien has a high potential for misuse and addiction. Those struggling with Ambien addiction may benefit from evidence-based addiction treatment.
What Is Ambien Used For?
Ambien is a brand name for zolpidem tartrate, a sedative drug that is prescribed to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep).
Other brand name formulations containing zolpidem include:
- Edluar—a sublingual tablet.
- Intermezzo—a sublingual tablet available in different doses.
- ZolpiMist—an oral spray formulation.
As a short-acting, non-benzodiazepine hypnotic drug, Ambien is effective in initiating and maintaining sleep.
When taken as prescribed by a doctor, zolpidem helps patients with insomnia. However, it can also cause undesired side effects—especially among those who abuse it.
Ambien Abuse Treatment