Clinical Update 2026: Z-Drugs and Pregnancy
Recent studies find no increase in the risk of major malformations with first-trimester Z-drug exposure, although small increases in risk of preterm birth and low birth weight have been reported.
Essential Reads: The Use of Sedative-Hypnotic Drugs During Pregnancy
More study is needed regarding the safety of sedative-hypnotic medications during pregnancy.
Adjusting Psychotropic Drug Dosages for Women
Although we do not typically adjust the dosage of medications based on gender, there are certain medications which may have different pharmacokinetics and rates of metabolism in women versus men.
Zolpidem (Ambien) in Pregnancy: Is it Safe?
It is estimated that up to 95% of women experience some type of sleep disturbance during pregnancy. While for many women the insomnia is relatively benign and may respond to simple interventions, other women experience more severe insomnia which has a significant impact on their quality of life and ability to function. While zolpidem (Ambien), a sedative-hypnotic agent used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, is commonly prescribed in pregnant women, the information regarding its reproductive safety has been sparse.