What is the brand name for Zolpidem?
The brand name for Zolpidem is Ambien.
PTCE Top 200 · #54
Zolpidem
Ambien
Zolpidem is the generic name for the brand-name drug Ambien. It is a sedative-hypnotic (z-drug) used to treat insomnia (sleep onset). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Zolpidem ranks #54 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Zolpidem |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Ambien |
| Drug class | Sedative-hypnotic (Z-drug) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | insomnia (sleep onset) |
| DEA schedule | C-IV |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Zolpidem used for?
• Short-term treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep initiation (and/or maintenance depending on formulation).
What drug class is Zolpidem?
Zolpidem is a Sedative-hypnotic (Z-drug) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Zolpidem
- arrow_rightDrowsiness
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightNext-day impairment
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAlcohol or other CNS depressants ↑ sedation/respiratory depression and complex sleep behaviors
- arrow_rightCYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) may ↑ zolpidem levels
- arrow_rightCNS depressant meds (opioids, benzos) ↑ impairment/falls
Is Zolpidem a controlled substance?
Yes. Zolpidem is a C-IV controlled substance under federal law.
warning Boxed warning
Complex sleep behaviors (sleep-walking, sleep-driving, etc.) can cause serious injury or death; discontinue if they occur.
How to remember Zolpidem (PTCE mnemonic)
AMBien sends you to AM-Bed — zolpi-DEM is a Z-drug C-IV. Sleep-driving/eating (boxed); next-day impairment esp. in women; ≤4-week use.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Zolpidem (Ambien) is a 'Z-drug' sedative-hypnotic — Schedule IV; take it right at bedtime with a full night's sleep ahead.
Zolpidem FAQ
What is Zolpidem used for?
Zolpidem is used to treat insomnia (sleep onset). • Short-term treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep initiation (and/or maintenance depending on formulation).
What drug class is Zolpidem?
Zolpidem is a Sedative-hypnotic (Z-drug) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Zolpidem a controlled substance?
Yes. Zolpidem is a C-IV controlled substance under federal law.
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Zolpidem the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).