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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 26, 2026

Behavioral Characterization of Pentylenetetrazole-induced Seizures: Moving Beyond the Racine Scale

Behavioral Characterization of Pentylenetetrazole-induced Seizures: Moving Beyond the Racine Scale

Published on: July 8, 2025

Zolpidem withdrawal delirium.

Surendra K Mattoo¹, Navendu Gaur, Partha P Das

¹Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.

Indian Journal of Pharmacology

|December 7, 2011

Summary

Z-category hypnotics like zolpidem may pose risks, particularly for alcohol-dependent individuals. This case report details zolpidem-induced delirium during alcohol de-addiction, emphasizing cautious use.

Keywords:

Adverse drug reactions alcohol dependence delirium insomnia zolpidem

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A Chronic Sleep Fragmentation Model using Vibrating Orbital Rotor to Induce Cognitive Deficit and Anxiety-Like Behavior in Young Wild-Type Mice

Published on: September 22, 2020

Area of Science:

Pharmacology
Clinical Neurology
Addiction Medicine

Background:

Z-category hypnotics are often perceived as safe sleep aids.
Emerging evidence suggests risks including intoxication, delirium, seizures, dependence, and withdrawal.
Alcohol dependence complicates the use of these medications.

Purpose of the Study:

To report a case of zolpidem-induced delirium in an alcohol-dependent patient.
To highlight the potential risks of zolpidem in this vulnerable population.
To emphasize the need for caution when prescribing zolpidem for insomnia in alcohol-dependent patients.

Main Methods:

Case report of a zolpidem-naive, alcohol-dependent inpatient undergoing alcohol de-addiction.
Patient was prescribed zolpidem for insomnia.
Clinical observation of delirium development during zolpidem taper-off.

Main Results:

The patient developed delirium while tapering off zolpidem during alcohol de-addiction.
Successful alcohol detoxification and delirium treatment were achieved.
Disulfiram prophylaxis was initiated post-treatment.

Conclusions:

Zolpidem use in alcohol-dependent patients requires careful consideration.
Prescribing zolpidem for insomnia in this population may precipitate delirium.
Clinicians should exercise caution and monitor patients closely.