"i started ambien when lunesta did not work for me, and it was effective in helping me sleep. one problem developed, i began getting up in the middle of the night and eating , especially if i thought of something before i dozed off (e.g. the chocolate cake i was saving til tomorrow, etc.).  i had to stop when i woke up with a cut on my hand, and realized i had cut up a leftover pork chop to eat. i had no recollection of eating, slicing my hand, or putting the bandage on. i cut down to half dose (5 mg) and the night eating stopped.  i wish i could find a substitute, but this really helps me sleep deeply and feel refreshed when i get up in the morning."