Compulsive activity and anterograde amnesia after zolpidem use.

BACKGROUND

Zolpidem is a selective GABAAalpha1 receptor modulator used for its hypnotic-sedative properties. Zolpidem has side effects that are similar but not identical to the benzodiazepines. We report the first cases of compulsive activity combined with anterograde amnesia after the use of zolpidem.

CASE REPORT: Three women experienced anterograde amnesia and compulsive repetitive behaviors after zolpidem use. These activities consisted of cleaning, shopping, and eating. These behaviors stopped after discontinuation of the zolpidem.

CONCLUSION

These reports demonstrate that compulsive activity combined with anterograde amnesia may be associated with the use of zolpidem. Physicians and pharmacists should be aware of this potential side effect.