Abstract

RINCON SALAZAR, David Andrés  and  ROBERT MEDINA, Raje Gerardo. Zolpidem: A Controlled Medication?. rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2006, vol.35, n.3, pp.429-435. ISSN 0034-7450.

Background: Zolpidem has been released in the market as a non- benzodiazepinic hypnotic drug without the risks of potential tolerance and abuse. Facts that are being re-evaluated with the next two cases discussed briefly, and that will be supported based on the growing evidence that appears to prove otherwise. Objective: To describe the cases of two individuals that took high doses of zolpidem, becoming physically and psychologically dependent, and the subsequent detoxification treatment with a short cycle of benzodiazepines. Methods: case report. Results: Compared with benzodiazepines, addiction to zolpidem is rare. However, at higher doses than those recommended and taken for extended periods of time it could be potentially addictive and could behave similar to benzodiazepines. Conclusions: Zolpidem is similar to other drugs of the same family and will tend to be prescribed as a controlled medication given the facts of its addictive potential especially in high risk populations.

Keywords : Addictive behavior; substance-related disorders; substance withdrawal syndrome; zolpidem.

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