What it means
A sedative-hypnoticSED-uh-tiv hip-NOT-ikA drug that calms a person (sedative) or helps them fall asleep (hypnotic); the same drug can do either, depending on the dose.Full entry that acts on the same brain receptors as benzodiazepines but is a different kind of drug (one of the "Z-drugs"). It works quickly, so it is taken right at bedtime. It can cause next-morning drowsiness, dizziness and falls. Rarely, people sleepwalk, drive or do other things while not fully awake and remember nothing.
For the nurse
Teach the client to take it only when they can stay in bed for a full night (7 to 8 hours), to avoid alcohol, and not to drive the next morning if still drowsy. Women are usually started on a lower dose. In older adults it raises the risk of falls and confusion. The extended-release tablet must not be crushed or split.
At a glance
| Drug class | sedative-hypnotic (non-benzodiazepine) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar |
| Spanish | zolpidem |
| Also written | Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar |
Related terms
sedative-hypnotic
A drug that calms a person (sedative) or helps them fall asleep (hypnotic); the same drug can do either, depending on the dose.
benzodiazepine
A group of calming drugs that slow brain activity, used for anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal and sedation.
GABA
Gamma-aminobutyric acid: the brain's main calming (inhibitory) neurotransmitter.