Ambien, known generically as zolpidem tartrate, is a prescription medication primarily used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics, which work by slowing down brain activity to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Ambien is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is available in two main formulations: Ambien immediate-release and Ambien CR (controlled-release).