Originally Posted by DESMOINESguy

It kicks in very quickly for me after I take it. I have learned to never take Ambien until I'm ready for sleep immediately. Alcohol, for me, greatly amplifies the effect, at least at first. One time, as the dinner service was beginning, I decided to take my Ambien as the carts were headed in my direction. I figured it would be better to take it on an empty stomach (don't think it much matters, actually). A few hours later I awaken and say to my travelling companion, "are they ever going to serve dinner". She looked at me and said, are you nuts, they served dinner two hours ago and you ate it and drank two glasses of wine. I had no memory of it whatsoever. Spooky. So, I still take Ambien, think it helps, but I am cautious, and prefer to be travelling with someone who can watch over me.