People who have insomnia or other sleep disorders often benefit from zolpidem tartrate, a sedative-hypnotic drug that corrects the underlying chemical imbalance that interferes with normal sleep. Zolpidem works quickly to slow brain activity and allow individuals to fall asleep rapidly. In the U.S., zolpidem is manufactured in various doses under the brand names of Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar and Zolpimist, according to PubMed Health, a website of the National Library of Medicine.
Sub-Lingual Tablet
Zolpidem is available as Edluar sub-lingual tablets, which come in both 5 mg. and 10 mg. strengths, states Edluar.com. The 5 mg. tablet is round and white with the Roman number V on one side. The 10 mg. sublingual tablet is also round and white, embossed with the Roman numeral X on one side. The lower dose formulation is used for older adults or those with significant medical problems, while the 10 mg. dose is the usual adult dose.
Oral Spray
Zolpimist, an oral spray form of zolpidem, comes in both 5 mg. and 10 mg. doses, states Drugs.com. Individuals who take 5 mg. of Zolpimist place the metered dose inhaler into the mouth and press down one time while inhaling. For a 10 mg. dose, they press down two separate times on the Zolpimist pump. The usual adult dose is 5 mg., but the lower dose can be given to people with reduced liver function or chronic disease.
Regular Tablets
Zolpidem is also available as Ambien oral tablets that come in 5 mg. pink capsule-shaped tablets imprinted with AMB 5 on one side and 5401 on the other, as well as white 10 mg. capsule-shaped tablets marked with AMB 10 on one side and 5421 on the other. Again, the lower dose is indicated for people who have difficulty breaking down the drug in their bodies.
Extended Release Tablets
Ambien CR is an extended release form of zolpidem that's manufactured with two layers of medication. The first layer is designed to dissolve quickly and promote rapid onset of sleep, while the second works throughout the night to promote continual restful sleep for 7 or 8 hours, according to Rx List. Ambien CR 6.25 mg comes in a round pink tablet imprinted with A~ on one side. Ambien CR is also available in a 12.5 mg. round blue tablet imprinted with A~ on one side. The usual adult dose is 12.5 mg. a night, but physicians may prescribe 6.25 mg. for elderly individuals or people with chronic medical problems including liver disease.
