Z-drugs (Zolpidem®, Zopiclon®, etc.)

Z-drugs primarily have a calming and sleep-inducing effect. They may also have anxiolytic and muscle-relaxing effects, though these are generally less pronounced than with benzodiazepines.

Z-drugs act only on specific sites of the GABA receptor, thereby promoting sleep onset and general sedation of the central nervous system. Their mechanism of action is therefore not identical to that of benzodiazepines (alprazolam, diazepam, flunitrazepam, etc.). Their effects are usually described as sleep-inducing and calming, rather than as anxiolytic or relaxing as with benzodiazepines.

Onset of effect

After about 30–45 minutes.

Duration of action

2.5–8 hours. Aftereffects such as drowsiness and amnesia (inability to recall events that occurred before falling asleep or during the first few hours of being awake) may last up to 12 hours.

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Zolpidem (Stilnox®, Ambien®, Zoldorm®); Zaleplon (Sonata®)

Swallowed

Light: 10–20 mg

Average: 20–40 mg

Strong: 40–80 mg

Zopiclone (Imovane®, Zimovane®, Ximovan®, Optidorm®)

Swallowed

Light: 7.5–15 mg

Average: 15–30 mg

Strong: 30–60 mg

Eszolpiclone (Lunesta®, Lunivia®, Esogno®)

Swallowed

Light: 1.5–3 mg

Average: 3–6 mg

Strong: 6–12 mg  

Z-drugs are usually taken as tablets. In rare cases, the tablets are crushed and snorted.

Risks

Common side effects of Z-drugs include drowsiness, impaired memory, sleepiness, nightmares, and a sensation of dreamless sleep, as well as reduced reaction speed and ability, fatigue the following day, dizziness, headaches, visual disturbances, gastrointestinal complaints, and confusion. Z-drugs can also trigger complex sleep behaviors. During these episodes, activities such as eating, talking on the phone, texting, cooking, or even driving may be performed without the person being fully awake. Often, there are no memories of these actions afterward (blackouts).

There is also an increased risk of falling.

In addition to physical discomfort and numbness, increased aggression may also occur the following day. Prolonged use may also lead to depression, apathy, and a lack of motivation.

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Long-term risks/consequences

Physical and psychological dependence can develop after just a few weeks (2–4 weeks) of regular use.

As a result, the dose must be increased to achieve the same effect. If use is stopped abruptly or immediately, it can lead to insomnia, tension, tremors, restlessness, and anxiety or panic attacks.

In cases of addiction, withdrawal should be planned and carried out carefully and under medical supervision.

Long-term use has been linked to memory problems, impaired memory, and depression. There is also evidence of an increased risk of cognitive impairment.

If medications are purchased on the black market or online rather than from a pharmacy or medical facility, their contents are unclear. Have the medication tested at a drug-checking service to determine its exact ingredients!

Do not rely on dosage recommendations from peers who regularly use Z-drugs. Due to tolerance or dependence, their doses may be significantly higher and could be fatal to first-time users.

Blisters of counterfeits may look identical to the original packaging.

The simultaneous use of depressant substances such as alcohol, ketamine, GHB/GBL, nitrous oxide, opioids, or benzodiazepines is dangerous. The sedative effects are amplified, increasing the risk of vomiting, loss of consciousness, and dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression). In the worst-case scenario, breathing may stop (respiratory arrest) or the person may choke on their own vomit.

Z-drugs are sometimes taken after consuming stimulants such as cocaine or amphetamines to help users relax or fall asleep. This can lead to memory lapses as well as so-called “sleep-related activities.” While in a state between sleep and wakefulness, users may perform actions that they later cannot remember at all or only partially recall. Avoid taking additional doses and make sure you are in a safe environment.