Is it okay to take prescribed ambien (zolpidem) within a few hours of drinking caffeine?

Yes, but...: You are creating a rollercoaster type of behavior which suggests pending addiction. The Ambien (zolpidem) won't work as well, plus, more and more reports of memory loss are coming out with Ambien (zolpidem) use. Ambien (zolpidem) has been linked to date rape, sleepwalking, and even a couple cases of unremembered murder. Please reconsider your actions.

Not recommended: as caffeine is a stimulant and Ambien (zolpidem) is a tranquilizer. You are creating a roller coaster effect on your body which is harmful. Rather than using Anbien decrease caffiene intake ( more than 100mg a day causes sleep problems). And try other sleep hygiene techniques rather than using a tranquilizer.