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Brand Name: Sonata
Generic Name: Zaleplon
(zal' e plon)
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Why is sonata prescribed?
Sonata (Zaleplon) is used for short-term treatment of insomnia to help you fall asleep.
Sonata is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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How should sonata be used properly?
Zaleplon (Sonata) comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day at bedtime or after going to bed if you cannot fall asleep. This medication is usually taken for 7-10 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take zaleplon exactly as directed. Do not take zaleplon unless you will be able to sleep for at least 4 hours after taking the dose.
Zaleplon can be habit-forming; do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer period than your doctor tells you to. Do not stop taking zaleplon without talking to your doctor.
Zaleplon can lose its effectiveness if used for long periods of time. If you experience difficulty falling asleep, call your doctor.
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What special precautions should I follow when using sonata?
Before taking zaleplon,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to zaleplon, aspirin, tartarzine (a yellow dye in some processed foods and drugs), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially allergy medications; antihistamines; barbiturates; cimetidine (Tagamet); cold medicines; imipramine (Tofranil); medications for depression; medications for seizures such as phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine (Eptitol, Tegretol, others), and phenobarbital (Solfoton); pain relievers; rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane); thioridazine (Mellaril); tranquilizers; and vitamins and herbal products.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, a history of alcohol or drug abuse or depression, asthma, breathing problems, or allergies.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking zaleplon, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking zaleplon.
- you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how zaleplon will affect you.
- remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking sonata?
Do not take sonata right after or with a high-fat or heavy meal.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of sonata?
Don not take the missed dose of sonata just as soon as you remember it. Always skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
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What side effects can sonata cause?
Although side effects from zaleplon are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- lack of coordination
- headache
- constipation
- dry mouth
- muscle aches
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- behavior changes or acting differently
- abnormal thinking or dreams
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- problems with memory
- worsening of insomnia
- difficulty breathing
- mental confusion
- hallucinations
- depression
- chest pain
- skin rash
- itching
- fever
» top What storage conditions are needed for sonata?
Always keep the sonata in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or a sonata overdose?
In case of a sonata overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about accutane?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Sonata is a controlled substance. Prescriptions may be refilled only a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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