I’ve used Sonata without any problems at all, and haven’t heard reports of Ambien-type problems with it, though I’ve also read that at least theoretically all hypnotic type sleep aids could have the same side effect. I haven’t read the details of dosage effect on the incidence of bizarre side effects. Since drug makers and doctors often routinely recommend a high dosage, i.e. one virtually guaranteed to deal with the problem it’s supposed to be addressing, but not necessarily balancing that with the risk of side effects. I usually only take half the smallest available capsule of Sonata, and believe me, opening up that little capsule and measuring out about half the powder inside is a big nuisance.
As for your Ambien experiences, look on the bright side: You didn’t end up on the side of a road, letting this scuzzy-looking career criminal have his way with you :-)
“You didn’t end up on the side of a road”
Well,,, that’s true. But I didn’t wake up until the smoke reached the floor, where I was reclining watching a tv that wasn’t turned on! I still wonder what show I thought I was watchin’.