ATC Group: N05CF Benzodiazepine related drugs

Eszopiclone is indicated for the treatment of insomnia. The mechanism of action of eszopiclone as a hypnotic is unclear; however, its effect could be related to its interaction with GABA-receptor complexes at binding domains located close to or allosterically coupled to benzodiazepine receptors.

Zaleplon is a pyrazolopyrimidine hypnotic that is structurally different from benzodiazepines and other hypnotics. Zaleplon binds selectively to the benzodiazepine type I receptor.

Zolpidem is an imidazopyridine which preferentially binds the omega-1 receptor subtype (also known as the benzodiazepine-1 subtype) which corresponds to GABA-A receptors containing the alpha-1 sub-unit, whereas benzodiazepines non-selectively bind both omega-1 and omega-2 subtypes. The modulation of the chloride anion channel via this receptor leads to the specific sedative effects demonstrated by zolpidem. These effects are reversed by the benzodiazepine antagonist flumazenil.

Zopiclone is a hypnotic agent belonging to the cyclopyrrolone class of psychotherapeutic agents. It rapidly initiates and sustains sleep without reduction of total REM sleep and with preservation of slow wave sleep. Negligible residual effects are seen the following morning. Its pharmacological properties include hypnotic, sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant and muscle-relaxant actions.