From skimming the article, it seems they've linked this effect to benzos interacting with a specific protein in microglia. This is not the interaction benzos sh

From skimming the article, it seems they've linked this effect to benzos interacting with a specific protein in microglia. This is not the interaction benzos share with Z-drugs, which is modulation of the GABA-A receptor. So it seems unclear whether this can be extrapolated to Zolpidem. However, Z-drugs(and benzos as a sleep aid) generally should not be used daily for longer than a few weeks until a better solution is found. Unfortunately, doctors often do this anyway, following the path of least resistance, I suppose. I wouldn't worry about any kind of brain damage, but I would recommend reviewing their options, maybe seeing another doctor. Lots of people can manage just fine with something like extended release melatonin, or indeed nothing.