Ambien, also known by its generic name zolpidem, is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat sleeplessness. Ambien work by slowing down brain activity to help induce sleep. Ambien is primarily prescribed for the short-term treatment of sleeplessness, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It helps people with sleeplessness by promoting sleep initiation and reducing nighttime awakenings. Ambien works by enhancing the functioning of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA slows down brain activity and helps to induce sleep.