Z Hypnotics Flashcards
Are zolpidem, zaleplon, eszopiclone, and ramelteon benzodiazepine hypnotics?
No.
What is the mechanism of action of zolpidem, zaleplon, and eszopiclone?
Acts on BZ1.
Rapid onset of action.
Decreases the latency of sleep (long duration of action).
Doesn’t suppress REM sleep, so it has a minimal effect on sleep architecture.
Does zolpidem have anticonvulsant or muscle-relaxing properties?
No.
What is the adverse effect profile of zolpidem?
Few withdrawal effects.
Minimal rebound insomnia.
Little to no tolerance.
However, adverse effects include:
- Nightmares.
- Agitation.
- GIT upset.
- ataxia.
Why does zaleplon cause fewer residual effects on psychomotor and cognitive functions compared to zolpidem and benzodiazepines?
Rapid elimination.
What is the tolerance profile of zaleplon?
Minimal tolerance over 5-week period.
Which type of sleep disturbance is eszopiclone used for?
Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
What is the elimination half-life of eszopiclone?
6 hours.
What are the adverse effects of eszopiclone?
Drowsiness.
Dizziness.
Potentiates alcohol sedation.
What is the tolerance profile of eszopiclone?
Minimal tolerance over 6-month period.
What is ramelton’s mechanism of action?
Selective agonist at MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors.
Where are melatonin receptors located?
In the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN).
What does melatonin do?
Stimulates MT1 and MT2.
Induces sleep and maintains circadian rthythm.
Where is melatonin produced?
Pineal gland in the dark.
Does ramelteon have an effect on GABAergic neurotransmission?
No.
