Is it safe to use regular ambien (zolpidem) sublingually?

Not wise: Before you do, call your provider's office to ask - at least ask a good pharmacist. Medications are intended for use as directed. It might not be effective because of the coating or it might be too quickly absorbed and have more side effect risk. Again, we must recognize that products that come w/ clear instructions for use don't do it for no reason. If anything goes badly, you'd feel like a fool.