In 1999 the drug Ambien was discovered to have the extremely unexpected ability of rejuvenating dead neurological tissue. This effect was first demonstrated in a South African man named Louis Viljoen, who was roused from what was thought to be a persistent vegetative state after receiving an injection of the drug. To learn more about this strange side effect, we spent some time with Louis and a voiceover artist named Tom Rohe who needs Ambien in order to speak clearly.
The Ambien Effect is coming soon to VICE.com.