Advances in Z-drug detection

The use of Z-drugs (zolpidem, zaleplon, zopiclone, and eszopiclone) has increased in recent years, leading to a growing need for analytical methods to accurately and reliably detect these compounds in biological samples. This review comprehensively presents the latest developments in the analysis of Z-drugs in biological samples, examining methods such as LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, and HPLC. These methods have been thoroughly evaluated in biological matrices (such as blood, plasma, serum, urine, and hair), with particular focus on characteristics like sample preparation technique, calibration range, LLOQ, analysis time, mobile phase, and column. Recent studies have shown that these methods are effective in routine toxicological analysis and forensic detection of drug abuse. This review aims to provide a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners involved in the detection and analysis of Z-drugs, contributing to a better understanding and management of both therapeutic and illicit use of these compounds.