Treatment of zolpidem dependence: a review of clinical cases

Introduction: Zolpidem is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic used to treat insomnia, which selectively binds to the alpha1 unit of GABA receptors. Therapeutic doses range from 5mg to 10mg a day. Continuous use, as well as doses above those reported, are associated with memory loss, tolerance, dependence and withdrawal syndrome. The latter is associated with anxiety symptoms, sleep disorders, autonomic dysfunction and seizures. Objectives: To analyse 40 clinical cases described in the literature as case series of Zolpidem dependence and its treatment, as well as the presence of associated psychiatric pathologies.