Work

Severe chronic abuse of zolpidem for over 10 years: a case report and review of similar cases

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Insomnia is a major health issue, and zolpidem is an effective treatment for insomnia. However, high doses of zolpidem can cause dependence, abuse, and withdrawal symptoms, questioning its advantages. Case presentation: A 39-year-old woman who has been divorced and unemployed for 2 years was referred to an addiction treatment center with a chief complaint of "seizure-like withdrawal symptoms after consuming high doses of zolpidem (up to 6,000 mg per day) for a decade." These symptoms were in the form of body tremors, nystagmus, stress, anxiety, hot flashes, and sweaty palms. She has been undergoing detoxification by clonazepam for almost 2 months. Except for the first few days, she did not have any withdrawal symptoms, and her insomnia caused by zolpidem has improved. Conclusion: Chronic abuse of zolpidem can cause dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and abuse. High doses can lead to extreme cravings and dependence. Physicians must manage the withdrawal process.

Source: Frontiers in Psychiatry

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1252397

Authors: Reza Moshfeghinia, Kimia Jazi, Shabnam Kabaranzadghadim, Mahdi Malekpour, Bahare Oji

Institutions: Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, University of Qom, Urmia University, Urmia University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,295