Zolpidem modified-release in insomnia

Cynthia Kirkwood¹, Jason Neill², Ericka Breden³

¹Department of Pharmacy; ²School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University; ³Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA

Abstract: Zolpidem modified-release (MR) is the first hypnotic agent to be marketed in an extended-release formulation. Zolpidem MR is a two-layered, biphasic release tablet indicated for the management of induction of sleep and sleep maintenance. The pharmacokinetics of the drug are similar to those of immediate-release zolpidem. Two double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trials demonstrated efficacy in adults and elderly patients treated with zolpidem MR for 3 weeks without significant impairment in next-day psychomotor functioning. The most common adverse effects with zolpidem MR were dizziness, somnolence, and headache. A starting dose of zolpidem MR 12.5 mg is recommended for adults and 6.25 mg for elderly patients.

Keywords: zolpidem modified-release, hypnotics, insomnia