Zolpidem
Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication used to treat short-term insomnia by helping individuals fall asleep faster. It belongs to a class of drugs called non-benzodiazepine hypnotics and works by enhancing the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity to promote sleep.
Zolpidem is a prescription sleep aid used for short-term treatment of insomnia that works by enhancing GABA activity in the brain.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05CF02
- RxNorm
- 39993
- Generic
- Zolpidem
- Class
- atc-n05c
- Brands
- Ambien, Edluar
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral, sublingual
- Forms
- tablet, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Zolpidem is prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia, particularly difficulty falling asleep. It is typically recommended for use periods of 7-10 days or less.
Zolpidem binds to benzodiazepine receptors on GABA A receptors containing the α1 subunit. This binding increases the frequency of chloride channel opening, enhancing the inhibitory effects of GABA and producing a calming, sedating effect that facilitates sleep onset.
Zolpidem should only be used for short-term treatment due to risk of dependence. Patients should have 7-8 hours available for sleep before taking it. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It should not be combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants. Rare but serious risks include complex sleep behaviors such as sleepwalking or sleep-driving.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy