I have taken both ambien and benzo based sleep meds. I take halcion now that is a benzo for sleep. Benzos meant as sleep meds are better for sleep usually compared to benzos meant for just anxiety.

Ambien was a super good sleep med for me but I got allergic to it. But I can understand the fear. I did not have much weird sleep behaviors on it but I can't lie, I had some. I found it a little scary. I did not know about those effects starting it because they were not officially known.

The most important thing is to go to bed at once when you take the med and if you can't sleep and feel wired, do NOT get up. Also I have used "traps" I set up so I know for sure I have not left the room at night.

I've also been on nitrazepam and flunitrazepam for sleep (the later not sold in USA), pretty good meds for sleep. Also been on imovane. It is not sold in USA but its next gen lunesta is. Lunesta is similar to ambien but with less reported night time episodes. They can still happen but lunesta is not as stimulating as ambien. Downside with lunesta is that you feel like you sucked on a coin all night. Ugh. LOL.