What mechanism of action do "Z" drugs use?

"Z" drugs, which include medications like zolpidem, zopiclone, and eszopiclone, primarily function by interacting with the GABA receptor system in the brain. More specifically, these drugs selectively bind to the GABA-A receptor and enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This interaction promotes sedation and helps facilitate sleep, which is why "Z" drugs are commonly prescribed as sleep aids.

The GABA-A receptors are crucial in regulating neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system, and their activation leads to increased chloride ion influx, resulting in hyperpolarization of the neuron and a calming effect. This mechanism distinguishes "Z" drugs from other types of sedatives or sleep medications, including benzodiazepines, which also act on GABA receptors but have a broader interaction with various receptor subtypes.

The other options reflect different mechanisms associated with other classes of drugs, highlighting that "Z" drugs are not characterized by stimulating dopamine receptors, interfering with serotonin receptors, or blocking opioid receptors, which are mechanisms relevant to other therapeutic agents.