They can be a lifesaver for an informed patient, though. I suffer from occasional insomnia (about once a month -- if working too late, got too emotionally invested in something, or if accidentally drank too much coffee), and Ambien has been incredibly helpful. I wouldn't dare take it on even a weekly basis, though.

Even though I haven't had any side effects, I still hide my car keys before taking it after having read stories of people driving while asleep on Ambien.