Age and gender differences in motives for z‐drug misuse: Findings from the 2015 to 2019 NSDUH survey.

Background and Objectives: Approximately 9% of people who are exposed to a nonbenzodiazepine sedative‐hypnotic medication ("z‐drug") misuse this medication, yet, the reasons why people misuse z‐drugs are not well‐characterized. Methods: Using population survey data, we examined gender and age differences in motives for z‐drug misuse. Results: Results suggested women and older adults have higher odds of misusing z‐drugs for sleep, and young adults have higher odds of misusing for recreation. Discussion and Conclusions: Although the majority of people who misuse z‐drugs report misusing to manage sleep, this is particularly common in women and older adults. Scientific Significance: Addressing inadequately treated sleep concerns may help mitigate z‐drug misuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]