Zolpidem dependence in a patient with former polysubstance abuse

Zolpidem is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic whose actions are mediated at the central GABA-A receptor complex. It has been assumed that zolpidem has a lower potential for abuse than benzodiazepines. However, there is growing evidence form clinical and animal pharmacology that the potential for dependence on zolpidem should not be underestimated (1). In human laboratory studies, abuse liability seemed to be similar to triazolam (2). Animal models suggest that the drug even had higher reinforcing properties than any benzodiazepine tested (3). In the following, a case of zolpidem abuse and dependence is described. The patient had a history of substance abuse. The observed tolerance-related events and withdrawal symptoms were comparable to those maintained by benzodiazepines.