Zolpidem dependence in an adult with bipolar affective disorder and epilepsy: A case report

摘要

Zolpidem is a short-acting non-benzodiazepine hypnotic agent,commonly recommended for short-term treatment of insomnia.Zolpidem has less dependence potential than benzodiazepines.Patients with mental illnesses often have disturbed sleep,for which zolpidem is often prescribed.Long-term use and self-medication(in more than recommended doses)are more likely to cause dependence.We report here a case of bipolar affective disorder with epilepsy,who developed dependence to zolpidem and had severe withdrawal symptoms.The management issues are also discussed with review of the literature.