Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ZALEPLON - ORAL (ZALL-eh-plon)
BRAND NAME(S): Sonata
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used for the short-term treatment of sleep problems (insomnia).
HOW TO USE: Take this product by mouth, immediately before bedtime or after you have gone to bed and have difficulty sleeping, as directed by your doctor. Do not take this medication with, or immediately after, a high-fat or heavy meal. This medication helps you fall asleep. To minimize side effects while you are awake (e.g., dizziness or memory trouble), take this medication when you are in bed and are able to get at least four hours of sleep before you need to be active again. Do not use this medication for longer than ten days without your doctor's approval. If your sleep problems continue, consult with your doctor. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. If this drug is used for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop using it without your doctor's approval. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, drowsiness, nausea or stomach upset may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects: dizziness, weakness, loss of coordination, muscle joint pain. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: mental/mood changes, persistent trouble sleeping, memory problems, loss of appetite, tingling of the hands or feet, rash, itching, tremors, eye/ear problems. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these very unlikely but serious side effects: fast/slow/irregular pulse, chest pain, trouble breathing, blood in the stool, unusual thirst, change in amount of urine. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Sleep - Read about how to get a healthy nights sleep, how much sleep is enough, and why skimping on sleep can lead to poor performance, health, and moods.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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