The Role of Zolpidem in Treating Neurological Disabilities After Stroke, Trauma, and Hypoxia: Evidence Review and Clinical Trial Justification
Authors: Dr. D.K. Roberts, Dr. E.T. King
DOI: 10.87349/JBUPT/28903
Page No: 18-36
Abstract
During 15 years 23 clinical reports and 6 studies have demonstrated associations between sub-sedative doses of zolpidem and recoveries from brain damage due to strokes, trauma and hypoxia. Clinical findings include unexpected awakenings from vegetative states and regressions of stroke symptoms after dosing that disappear during elimination and reappear on repeat dosing. Initially SPECT scans showed improved perfusion within, around and distant from infarctions. Then PET scans and EEG detected renewed metabolic and neuronal activity. Placebo or a similar, GABA-ergic, sedative zopiclone has no such effect. The effect appears only several months after the injury, reflecting recent evidence in mice of substantial differences between the states of GABA receptors in acute and chronic repair phases of recovery. Zolpidem’s good safety record and rapid absorption further indicate a need for more clinical trials.
