Ambien (zolpidem) is a sedative-hypnotic medication primarily prescribed for short-term management of insomnia. It’s available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations, both aimed at helping users initiate and maintain sleep. Ambien affects neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically binding to GABA receptors, which have a calming effect on the central nervous system. This mechanism helps induce sleep in people experiencing insomnia or difficulty falling asleep.