Hi. I've been on Ambien since 2011, in various degrees. Started out needing 5mg only while on vacations. Eventually needing it every night but only 2.5mg. Recently my refills were denied because I'm 70 yrs old and my insurance is obligated to deny coverage because of possible side effects at my age (mainly sleepwalking and/or falling). I have never had a problem with any of that and Ambien works great for me. My husband would prefer me to get off of it and I've tried but, like you, I can't get to sleep. I have been diagnosed throughout the years with generalized anxiety, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's, so sleep is very important. So my doctor prescribed doxepin. I have not tried it yet because I still have some Ambien. If the doxepin doesn't work for me, the insurance company says my doctor can send an appeal to continue the Ambien. Alternatively, my pharmacy says I can bypass the insurance and pay out of pocket for the Ambien but the doctor still has to order it. The pharmacy would charge me $11.30 for a 30 day supply - not bad if that's the route I have to go. I hope you have luck being able to continue the Ambien if that's what works for you. Good luck.

I will stay on ambein...I am over the age of 65 and will take it ..I know how it feels to not sleep..sometimes you just have to do what makes your life better and we are need sleep