Clinical studies show that doses higher than 10mg don't increase effectiveness. Ambien is best used for short periods. If you take it for longer periods, it will likely lose much of its effectiveness. Be aware that stopping Ambien is not as easy as some would have you believe, so be very careful and try other methods first.
I take 10 milligrams of the generic of Ambien. Unfortunately, I can't sleep without it. I also take melatonin about two hours before bed. I have to go without a sleeping pill for two days every couple of weeks to keep it working for me.
I usually cut the 10mg tabs in thirds (not easy). I take 1/3 at bedtime and another 1/3 along with a Benadryl when I wake up in the middle of the night. Works most of the time. If I have an important day planned, I take 2/3 at bedtime. I've experimented with melatonin but it didn't seem to help.
