Zolpidem (Ambien)
Hypnotic (GABA-A receptor agonist at subtype involved in sleep (alpha-1))
- Hypnotic
- Max 5/6.25mg in women
Features
Dosing
5-10 mg/night (6.25-12.5 for CR). Use lower 5/6.25 dose for women and those over 65.
Management
Warn of driving problems, am fatigue, dangerous sleep behaviors (cooking while half asleep). Metabolized through CYP3A4.
Half-life 2.5 hr. Avoid if patient has a history of overdose or sleep-walking behaviors on z-hypnotics.
EMR Text
Insomnia
Zolpidem use based on FDA approval in insomnia.
Hypnotic side effects, including REM-behaviors, dependence, amnesia and motoric/sedative effects reviewed with patient.