My docotr put me on ambien (zolpidem) due to sleep issues and stress but i've read a lot of bad about it. should i be worried or will it be safe to contunue?

Ambien (zolpidem): Used for very temporary sleep disturbance, Ambien (zolpidem) can be safe. It can still have effects such as sleepwalking and other behaviors the person may not recall doing. When used routinely for a few weeks it induces tolerance and physical dependence. So, it's also very important to work on your stress in non-pharmaceutical ways. Seek out a good psychologist who can help you with that. Best wishes.

Prevention: Not being able to sleep may indicated sleep problems that can be life shortening or life threatening. The only way to know if there are serious problems is with an overnight sleep test. I encourage you to seek help.