Incidence of and Risk Ractors for Zolpidem-Induced Delirium / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Zolpidem is a safe and effective drug for the treatment of insomnia. However, there are some reports of adverse effects, such as delirium, after administration of zolpidem. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of and risk factors for zolpidem-induced delirium. METHODS: This retrospective study enrolled 481 patients who were admitted to hospital and received zolpidem between January and May 2011. We analyzed the incidence and risk factors associated with zolpidem-induced delirium. RESULTS: Zolpidem-induced delirium occurred in 19 of 481 (4.0%) patients. Zolpidem-induced delirium was significantly associated with old age (> or = 65 years; odds ratio [OR] = 4.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.52-12.44, p = 0.006) and co-administration of benzodiazepine (OR = 4.30, 95% CI = 1.52-12.12, p = 0.006). When males > 65 years-old took both benzodiazepine and zolpidem simultaneously, the incidence of delirium was notably elevated (OR = 6.04, 95% CI = 1.80-20.20, p = 0.003). Other factors, including dosage, did not influence the occurrence of delirium. CONCLUSIONS: Old age and co-administration of benzodiazepine were independent risk factors for zolpidem-induced delirium. Therefore, a detailed medical history should be taken before prescribing zolpidem to an older person, and zolpidem should be used cautiously, with careful monitoring, in these patients.