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Zaleplon
  • Treatments
  • Insomnia

Zaleplon

Generic name: zaleplon [ ZAH-le-plon ]
Brand name: Sonata
Dosage form: oral capsule (10 mg; 5 mg)
Drug class:Miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 29, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is zaleplon?

Zaleplon is a sedative that is used to treat insomnia. zaleplon causes relaxation to help you fall asleep and stay asleep.

Zaleplon may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Some people using this medicine have engaged in activity while not fully awake and later had no memory of it. If this happens to you, stop taking zaleplon and call your doctor right away.

Serious injury or death could occur if you walk or drive while you are not fully awake.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use zaleplon if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever taken sleep medicine and engaged in activity you later don't remember.

Zaleplon is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • liver or kidney disease;

  • a breathing disorder;

  • depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts; or

  • drug or alcohol addiction.

You should not take zaleplon if you are pregnant.

You should not breastfeed while using zaleplon.

The sedative effects of zaleplon may be stronger in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take sedatives. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury while you are taking zaleplon.

How should I take zaleplon?

Follow all directions on your...