Re: Ambien abuse,
"Abuse of this drug (specifically the Ambien brand) is becoming more common in young people. Abusers claim that "fighting" the effects of the drug by forcing themselves to stay awake will cause vivid visuals and a body high (see side-effects below.) Some recreational users report decreased anxiety, and even mild to moderate euphoria.
Recreational zolpidem use is speculated to lead to tolerance and dependence much more quickly than prescribed use. Recreational use is rising, as demonstrated by the use of street names for the pill, such as: "A-" (because of its sedative and calming effects, "A+" is a street name for Adderall, named so because of its stimulant effects) and "Zombie Pills" (Because of the waking sleep effect many users experience)."
I've heard recent reports of the zombie or wakeful sleep in those using it correctly. This mixing of Adderall and Ambien is a new one to me, I'd heard of them separately, but now even worse. Scary stuff. I wonder if we'll ever know if he was actually drunk or high or both or just an accidental side effect of the sleep drug. Still, admitting he took it before getting in his car does not point in his favor, as an 'accidental' thing.