Ambien, also known by its generic name zolpidem, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics, which work by slowing down brain activity to induce sleep. Ambien is available in immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets (Ambien CR), and sublingual tablets (Edluar and Intermezzo). The immediate-release tablets are typically taken just before bedtime, while the extended-release tablets are designed to help individuals fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.