Sonata

How does it work?

Zaleplon belongs to a new group of medicines that are used to help individuals who have difficulty falling asleep. It selectively binds to a particular part of a receptor in the brain called GABA receptors. This causes the release of a chemical called GABA (gamma amino butyric acid). GABA is a major inhibitory chemical in the brain which is responsible for causing sleepiness and controlling anxiety and fits. By increasing GABA release, zaleplon therefore helps individuals to fall asleep, as well as decreasing anxiety and relaxing the muscles.

What is it used for?

Severe difficulties with falling asleep

Warning!

Do not drink alcohol whilst taking this medicine.

This medicine is generally only suitable for short-term use. If it is used for long periods or in high doses, tolerance to and dependence upon the medicine may develop, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if treatment is stopped suddenly. For this reason, treatment with this medicine should usually be stopped gradually, following the instructions given by your doctor, in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as rebound insomnia or anxiety, confusion, sweating, tremor, loss of appetite, irritability or convulsions.

This medicine should not be used for more than two weeks.

Use with caution in

Alcoholism

Anxiety

Depression

Individuals with problems of drug abuse

Psychotic illness

Not to be used in

Abnormal muscle weakness

Children or adolescents under 18 years of age

Severely decreased liver function

Severely decreased lung function

Syndrome involving short spells when breathing stops during sleep

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been established. The manufacturer therefore advises that it should be avoided during pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk. It is recommended that mothers should avoid using this medicine while breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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