Zolpidem Alternatives in North Carolina
Compare generic and therapeutic alternatives to Zolpidem (zolpidem tartrate) available at North Carolina pharmacies. Save up to 87% on your prescription — no insurance required.
Top Alternatives in North Carolina
Trazodone
therapeutic
Non-controlled antidepressant — widely used off-label for insomnia
Avg cash price: $10/mo
Melatonin (OTC)
therapeutic
OTC supplement — safe first-line option for mild insomnia
Avg cash price: $8/mo
Ambien (brand zolpidem)
brand
Brand name — same drug at 8× the cost
Avg cash price: $120/mo
North Carolina Prescription Assistance Programs
NC Medicaid Rx
Prescription drug coverage for NC Medicaid and NC Health Choice (CHIP) beneficiaries.
Eligibility: Low-income North Carolina adults, children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. North Carolina expanded Medicaid in December 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is zolpidem the same as Ambien?
Yes — zolpidem is the generic form of Ambien. It has been generic since 2007 and costs $10–$20/month versus $100+ for brand Ambien.
Is zolpidem a controlled substance?
Yes — zolpidem is DEA Schedule IV, the same as benzodiazepines. It requires a prescription and in most states cannot be refilled without a new prescription after a certain number of fills.
What are the risks of taking zolpidem long-term?
Long-term zolpidem use carries risks of tolerance, physical dependence, next-day impairment, and sleep-related behaviours (sleepwalking, sleep-driving). It is approved only for short-term insomnia management (typically 4 weeks or less).
What is zolpidem CR and is it different from regular zolpidem?
Zolpidem CR (extended-release, brand Ambien CR) is designed to help with both sleep onset and sleep maintenance. Generic zolpidem ER is available and cheaper than brand CR, but more expensive than immediate-release generic.
What does generic zolpidem cost through Script Unlock?
Generic zolpidem (immediate-release) typically costs $10–$18/month through Script Unlock pharmacies — one of the most cost-effective prescription sleep aids available.