Sleep drugs
In this lesson, we'll cover two commonly-used sleep medications: zolpidem (better known as Ambien) and melatonin.
1) First, watch these videos:
2) Next, answer these questions to test your understanding:
1. Zolpidem, commonly known by the brand name Ambien, is a drug that promotes sleep primarily by increasing activity at these neurotransmitter receptors:
- A. serotonin
- B. dopamine
- C. glutamate
- D. GABA
Show Answer
Correct answer: D
Zolpidem exerts its effects by increasing activity at receptors for the neurotransmitter GABA. GABA is primarily an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and increasing GABA activity can promote sleep as GABA can decrease activity in parts of the brain that promote wakefulness.
2. True or false: Zolpidem is a benzodiazepine.
- A. true
- B. false
Show Answer
Correct answer: B
Zolpidem is not a benzodiazepine. It belongs to a class of drugs called non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, sometimes called Z-drugs. Like benzodiazepines, it enhances the effects of GABA and can cause sedation and drowsiness. However, zolpidem is more selective for GABA-A receptors involved in sleep, making it primarily a sleep aid rather than an anti-anxiety medication.
3. Melatonin's primary mechanism of action is thought to be activation of these receptors:
- A. GABA-A receptors
- B. D2 receptors
- C. MT1 and MT2 receptors
- D. NMDA receptors
Show Answer
Correct answer: C
Melatonin’s primary mechanism of action is thought to be activation of melatonin receptors known as MT1 and MT2, which are found throughout the brain and body.
4. True or False: Studies generally find melatonin to be effective in reducing the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.
- A. true
- B. false
Show Answer
Correct answer: A
Evidence on the effectiveness of melatonin is mixed, but it generally suggests that melatonin is effective in promoting sleep and may also be effective in reducing the impact of circadian rhythm disruptions, such as jet lag. Meta-analyses, for example, have found melatonin to reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, increase total sleep time, and improve sleep quality.
