Zaleplon is a sedative/hypnotic commonly used for insomnia. It interacts with the GABA receptor complex and shares some pharmacological properties of benzodiazepines. It helps you fall asleep quicker and stay asleep through the night by slowing down the nervous system.
Zaleplon Uses:
Treating insomnia on a short-term basis (difficulty falling asleep).
Does not help you remain asleep longer or reduce night awakenings.
Belongs to hypnotics, working by slowing brain activity.
Zaleplon Side Effects:
Common Side Effects:
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Lack of coordination
Numbness, tingling in hands
Headache
Loss of appetite
Vision problems, eye pain
Sensitivity to light
Painful menstrual periods
Serious Side Effects:
Rash, itching, hives
Swelling of face
Hoarseness
Difficulty breathing
Precautions:
Allergic reactions: Inform your doctor about any allergies.
Medical history: Discuss liver problems, low blood pressure, breathing problems, and depression with your doctor.
How to Take Zaleplon:
Comes as an oral capsule, typically taken at bedtime.
Avoid heavy or high-fat meals before taking.
Plan to sleep 7-8 hours after taking.
Habit-forming: Follow doctor’s prescription and do not increase dosage.
Consult your doctor before stopping; sudden discontinuation may cause withdrawal symptoms.
Interactions:
Avoid medications like Calcium oxybate, Magnesium oxybate, Potassium oxybate, and Sodium oxybate.
Missed Dose:
Skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Use only when you are unable to sleep.
Overdose:
Symptoms: Extreme drowsiness, confusion, lack of balance, severe muscle weakness, fainting, shallow breathing.
Seek medical emergency if overdose occurs.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions:
Allergies:
Inform your doctor about any unusual or allergic reactions to Zaleplon or other medicines.
Pregnancy:
Zaleplon can cause serious problems during pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Breastfeeding:
The medication can pass into breast milk and may cause serious problems for the baby. Discuss with your doctor.
Storage:
Store at room temperature (68ºF – 77ºF or 20ºC – 25ºC).
Keep away from heat, air, light, and out of children’s reach.
Zaleplon vs Xanax
Zaleplon
Xanax
Used for insomnia (difficulty falling asleep).
Used for treating anxiety disorders and panic attacks.
Sedative/hypnotic, known as a hypnotic nonbenzodiazepine.
Anti-anxiety medication.
Does not help with staying asleep longer or reducing night awakenings.
Provides short-term relief from anxiety symptoms.
Common side effects: drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, lack of coordination, numbness, tingling in hands.
Serious side effects: drowsiness, fatigue, constipation, dry mouth.
For more detailed information or if you have any concerns, consult with your healthcare provider.
