Anxiolytics/sedative-hypnotics

Question 1

Zolpidem (Ambien)

Answer 1

Indication: insomnia

Half-life: 2-4hr

Side effects: headache, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea

Comments: increased effect w alcohol or SSRIs

Question 2

Zaleplon (Sonata)

Answer 2

Indication: insomnia

Half-life: 1hr

Side effects: headache, peripheral edema, amnesia, dizziness, rash, nausea, tremor

Question 3

Ramelteon (Rozerem)

Answer 3

Indication: insomnia

Half-life: 1-2.6hr

Side effects: headache, galactorrhea

Comments: melatonin receptor agonist, no affinity for GABA complex

Question 4

Buspirone (BuSpar)

Answer 4

Indication: generalized anxiety

Half-life: 5-11hr

Side effects: headache, GI distress, dizziness

Comments: less useful in patients who have used BZDs, don’t use with MAOIs