Sedative-Hypnotics (Non-Benzodiazepine)
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Overview
Non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics (Z-drugs) are prescription sleep medications that act on GABA receptors similarly to benzodiazepines but with more selective binding and fewer side effects.
How do sedative-hypnotics (non-benzodiazepine) work?
Z-drugs selectively bind to the alpha-1 subunit of the GABA-A receptor, enhancing the inhibitory effects of GABA. This selectivity produces sedation with less anxiolytic, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects compared to benzodiazepines.
Drugs in this class
- Zolpidem (Ambien, Ambien CR, Intermezzo)