Ambien, generically known as zolpidem, is a prescription medication primarily used for the short-term management of insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics, which work by affecting chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with sleep problems. Ambien is known for its ability to induce sleep rapidly, typically within 15 to 30 minutes of ingestion, making it an effective solution for those struggling with difficulty falling asleep.