Ambien is given to treat temporary bouts of insomnia. It is a sedative that causes users to relax, allowing them to fall asleep easier. Ambien is a prescription medication that must be prescribed by ones doctor. Taking it without a prescription is illegal.
Quaaludes (methaqualone), are central nervous system depressants. They are hypnotic/sedatives which have been prescribed to treat anxiety and also insomnia. This drug was heavily abused quite a bit during the 1960s and 1970s.
These central nervous system depressants may be given to individuals who suffer from anxiety, stress, panic attacks and insomnia.