Ambien contains the active ingredient zolpidem[3], and is a type of medicine known as a sedative-hypnotic. It is used to treat insomnia and is only used for a few weeks as a short-term treatment for insomnia. Ambien works by enhancing the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors, and helps slow down brain activity, which promotes calming effects and induces sleep.
According to studies[4], zolpidem can help overcome both trouble falling asleep and trouble staying asleep as well as improve sleep quality. However, the latter effect requires additional research because restorative sleep relies on much more than sleep duration and relaxation.
Ambien is available as immediate-release and extended-release oral tablets:
The immediate-release form is intended to help a person fall asleep more easily.
The extended-release form helps in both falling asleep and staying asleep for a longer period.
The generic zolpidem is also available as a capsule.
Remember to discuss the onset of action with your healthcare provider, how long you should take the medicine, and never take more than the prescribed dose.
Who Can Prescribe Ambien?
Ambien is a Schedule IV[5]controlled substance in the United States, which means that it has a potential for abuse and dependence. Therefore, only healthcare providers who are authorized to prescribe controlled substances can prescribe Ambien.
In the US, the following licensed healthcare professionals who may be able to prescribe Ambien include:
Psychiatrists
Medical Doctors (MD)
Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Primary Care Physicians
Neurologists
Nurse Practitioners (NP)
Physician Assistants (PA)
The specific types of providers who can prescribe Ambien may vary from state to state.
Can You Get Ambien Prescribed Online?
It is possible to get a prescription for Ambien online through a telemedicine service[6], such as MEDvidi. In this case, you are required to have a virtual consultation with a licensed healthcare provider and go through an assessment and a diagnostic process. An appointment typically includes an evaluation of symptoms and health history, based on which a healthcare professional can make a diagnosis and determine if Ambien is appropriate for you.
If prescribed, take Ambien following all the received instructions. Also, have regular follow-ups with your provider who can assess the safety of treatment, your health dynamics, and adjust the plan if necessary.
Who Qualifies for an Ambien Prescription?
Whether or not you need and can use Ambien to improve sleep depends on several factors. Your healthcare provider will evaluate all of them, with the key being:
Diagnosis: Ambien is FDA-approved to treat insomnia, and one can get it prescribed for this condition.
Contraindications: A history of substance abuse, known hypersensitivity to zolpidem or other similar medicines, history of complex sleep behaviors, and your individual health history. It’s important to note that the use of Ambien during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended.
The only trustworthy way to learn if Ambien is the right treatment for you is to consult a healthcare professional.