Abstract
Benzodiazepines and the benzodiazepine-like z-hypnotics (zopiclone, zolpidem, and zaleplon) have the same mode of action and many of the same effects. The use of z-hypnotics has had a steady and large increase since their introduction in Norway, and sales data suggest extensive use among the elderly. The relatively short half-lives of these drugs may cause less hangover effects, but z-hypnotics are hardly more effective or safer than benzodiazepines. The two classes of drugs should be prescribed with similar caution.
MeSH terms
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Acetamides / administration & dosage*
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Acetamides / adverse effects
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Acetamides / pharmacokinetics
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Azabicyclo Compounds
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Benzodiazepines / administration & dosage*
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Benzodiazepines / adverse effects
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Benzodiazepines / pharmacokinetics
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Half-Life
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Humans
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Hypnotics and Sedatives / administration & dosage*
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Hypnotics and Sedatives / adverse effects
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Hypnotics and Sedatives / pharmacokinetics
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Piperazines / administration & dosage*
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Piperazines / adverse effects
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Piperazines / pharmacokinetics
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Pyridines / administration & dosage*
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Pyridines / adverse effects
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Pyridines / pharmacokinetics
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Pyrimidines / administration & dosage*
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Pyrimidines / adverse effects
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Pyrimidines / pharmacokinetics
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Substance-Related Disorders / etiology
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Zolpidem
Substances
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Acetamides
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Azabicyclo Compounds
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Hypnotics and Sedatives
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Piperazines
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Pyridines
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Pyrimidines
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zopiclone
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Benzodiazepines
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Zolpidem
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zaleplon