Z-DRUGS

Question 1

What are the Z-Drugs and how do they work?

Answer 1

• They are non-benzodiazepine hypnotics
• But they act as the benzodiazepine receptor
• They work in a similar way to benzos

Question 2

Examples

Answer 2

1. Zolpidem
   - Short-acting
2. Zopiclone
   - Short-acting
3. Zaleplon
   - VERY short-acting
   They are all short-acting (none are long-acting)

Question 3

What is the difference between the
indications for use of benzos in comparison to Z-drugs?

Answer 3

Benzodiazepines can be used for anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms
Whereas Z-drugs are used for Insomnia ONLY
- Short term use!

Question 4

What are the side-effects of Z-Drugs?

Answer 4

Same as benzos
Mainly sedation

Question 4

What are the
contraindications for Z-drugs?

Answer 4

• Same as benzos…
• Myasthenia gravis
• Respiratory depression/ weakness

Question 5

Can someone get
tolerance/dependence on Z-drugs?

Answer 5

• Yes
• Withdrawal is the same as benzos and if you want to get them off it, it would be slowly (like benzos)

Question 6

How long should Z-drugs be taken for and why?

Answer 6

1. Zopiclone and Zolpidem for max 4 weeks
   - They are short acting
2. Zaleplon for max 2 weeks
   - They are VERY short acting, so withdrawal is felt straight away and quickly so hence why treatment duration is shorter then zopiclone and zolpidem