Zolpidem (Ambien) is commonly used short-term to help treat insomnia. It can be used to help people fall asleep faster or help them wake up less times during the night. FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA approves new label changes and dosing for zolpidem products and a recommendation to avoid driving the day after using Ambien CR. The usual Ambien CR dosage for adults is 6.25 mg or 12.5 mg once per night right before bedtime. The recommended starting dose for men is 6.25 mg or 12.5 mg, while the starting dose for women is typically 6.25 mg. Ambien and Ambien CR have the same active ingredient, zolpidem. Ambien CR is an extended-release form that works differently to last longer in the body, which may help you stay asleep longer. Ambien and Ambien CR are brand-name prescription drugs. They’re both FDA-approved to treat insomnia (trouble sleeping) in adults in certain situations. Ambien and Ambien CR come as oral. Zolpidem is used to treat insomnia (trouble sleeping). It belongs to the group of medicines called central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which slows down the nervous system. Zolpidem will help you get to sleep faster and sleep throughout the night. AMBIEN CR (zolpidem tartrate extended-release tablets) is indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep onset and/or sleep maintenance (as measured by wake time after sleep onset). AMBIEN CR (zolpidem tartrate extended-release tablets) is indicated for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep onset and/or sleep maintenance (as measured by wake. Easy-to-read patient leaflet for Ambien CR. Includes indications, proper use, special instructions, precautions, and possible side effects. Ambien is used to treat insomnia. The immediate-release tablet is used to help you fall asleep when you first go to bed. The extended-release form, Ambien CR, which has a first layer that dissolves quickly to help you fall asleep, and a second layer that dissolves slowly to help you stay asleep.