The Safety Risk Associated With Z-Medications To Treat Insomnia In Substance Use Disorder Patients

Abstract

Z-medications are commonly prescribed in clinical practices despite the safety concerns. Although these medications are considered safer than benzodiazepines, both act on GABA-A receptors as an allosteric modulator. In clinical practice, the risk profile for both medications is not any different, particularly in substance use disorder population. The safety risk is more alarming due to possible abuse, dependence and tolerance related issues in this population. Physicians should be careful while prescribing these medications and if indicated, its use should be limited over brief period of time and close patient monitoring is recommended.