Treatments and supplements · Z-drugs (Zolpidem and similar sleeping pills)

Are z-drugs like zolpidem safe for sleep long term?

What we can tell you today: how thoroughly this has been studied.

Well studied

3 studies, including 2 that bring together the results of several trials in people.

5 Repeated evidence 2 studies

4 Large controlled trial 1 study

This says how thoroughly something has been studied — not whether it works for you. What each study actually found is in the study itself, and in the plain-language write-ups we are adding.

Appears under: Sleep, energy and the brain

The studies

5 Repeated evidence Efficacy and safety of Z-substances in the management of insomnia in older adults: a systematic review for the development of recommendations to reduce potentially inappropriate prescribing.
2022 · BMC geriatrics
5 Repeated evidence Efficacy and safety of non-benzodiazepine and non-Z-drug hypnotic medication for insomnia in older people: a systematic literature review.
2020 · European journal of clinical pharmacology · 10 participants
4 Large controlled trial Long-Term Maintenance of Therapeutic Gains Associated With Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Delivered Alone or Combined With Zolpidem.
2017 · Sleep · 160 participants