What is the brand name for Zolpidem?
The brand name for Zolpidem is Ambien.
PTCB 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.
Study guides that cover Zolpidem
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Controlled substance scheduleswhy this drug's schedule sets its refill limits
verified_userDEA numbers & DEA formsthe DEA paperwork controlled drugs require
e911_emergencyHigh-alert medications listthe meds where an error does the most harm
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's classSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Zolpidem the way the PTCE asks it
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Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Last reviewed August 7, 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).