[High usage of zolpidem and zopiclone. Cross-sectional study using claims data].
BACKGROUND
Case reports indicate dose increase, abuse, and dependence concerning zolpidem and zopiclone (so-called Z-drugs).


METHODS
We conducted a cross-sectional study between 1 July and 31 December 2004 using claims data of the German health insurer Gmuender ErsatzKasse to examine high usage of these drugs.


RESULTS
A total of 6959 subjects bought at least one packet of zolpidem or zopiclone, including 20.9% containing 90 daily doses (DDD) or more. High usage, defined as at least 180 DDD, was identified in 501 subjects (7.2%). Compared to other use, high usage was associated with GP visits only for the prescription of Z-drugs (odds ratio 2.01, 95% confidence interval 1.52-2.67), neuroleptics (odds ratio 2.53, 95% confidence interval 2.02-3.18), and polypharmacy (odds ratio 2.40, 95% confidence interval 1.84-3.15).


CONCLUSIONS
Zolpidem and zopiclone are often prescribed in higher doses or for long-term use. Such therapy regimens should be viewed critically.
Hoffmann
F
F
ZeS, AG Arzneimittelanwendungsforschung, Universität Bremen, 28203, Bremen. hoffmann@zes.uni-bremen.de
Pfannkuche
M
M
Glaeske
G
G
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D053961:Azabicyclo Compounds / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D011307:Drug Prescriptions / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D004363:Drug Utilization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005194:Family Practice / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007344:Insurance Claim Reporting / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008134:Long-Term Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009313:National Health Programs / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D010879:Piperazines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011725:Pyridines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D014600:Utilization Review / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000077334:Zolpidem
D053961:Azabicyclo Compounds; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D010879:Piperazines; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs; D011725:Pyridines; C515050:zopiclone; D000077334:Zolpidem