Ambien, also known by its generic name zolpidem, is a prescription medication commonly used to treat insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics and works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with sleep problems. The typical recommended dose of Ambien for adults is 5 to 10 mg, taken once per night before bedtime. It should be taken only when you are ready to go to sleep and can dedicate 7-8 hours to sleep.