Zaleplon

Insomnia
Treatment
1 FDA approval
1 Active Study for Zaleplon

What is Zaleplon

ZaleplonThe Generic name of this drug
Treatment SummaryZaleplon is a medication used to treat insomnia. It works by affecting the GABA receptor complex in the brain and has similar effects to benzodiazepines, though it is not classified as a benzodiazepine. Zaleplon is a controlled substance in the United States and is classified as a Schedule IV drug.
Sonatais the brand name
image of different drug pills on a surface
Zaleplon Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Sonata
Zaleplon
1999
64

Approved as Treatment by the FDA

Zaleplon, otherwise called Sonata, is approved by the FDA for 1 uses which include Insomnia .
Insomnia

Effectiveness

How Zaleplon Affects PatientsZaleplon is a drug used to treat insomnia in the short-term. It does not belong to the same class as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or other drugs used to help people sleep, but it works in a similar way. It interacts with proteins in the brain known as GABA<sub>B</sub>Z and GABA<sub>A</sub> receptors. This helps to calm the brain and body, eliminating anxiety and muscle tension and promoting sleep.
How Zaleplon works in the bodyZaleplon affects the GABA receptor, which is a type of protein found in the brain. It binds to the omega-1 receptor, located on the alpha subunit of the GABA receptor, and helps it to open up. This allows chloride ions to flow through, which helps to relax the body and reduce anxiety.

When to interrupt dosage

The suggested dosage of Zaleplon is contingent upon the determined circumstance. The measure of dosage also fluctuates as per the method of delivery featured in the table beneath.
Condition
Dosage
Administration
Insomnia
, 5.0 mg, 10.0 mg
, Oral, Capsule, Capsule - Oral, Capsule, gelatin coated, Capsule, gelatin coated - Oral

Warnings

There are 20 known major drug interactions with Zaleplon.
Common Zaleplon Drug Interactions
Drug Name
Risk Level
Description
Astemizole
Major
The metabolism of Astemizole can be decreased when combined with Zaleplon.
Axitinib
Major
The metabolism of Axitinib can be decreased when combined with Zaleplon.
Azelastine
Major
Zaleplon may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Azelastine.
Cabazitaxel
Major
The metabolism of Cabazitaxel can be decreased when combined with Zaleplon.
Copanlisib
Major
The metabolism of Copanlisib can be decreased when combined with Zaleplon.
Zaleplon Toxicity & Overdose RiskCommon side effects of Acetaminophen include abdominal pain, forgetfulness, feeling lightheaded, being sleepy, eye discomfort, headaches, trouble remembering things, menstrual cramps, feeling nauseous, extreme drowsiness, a tingling sensation, and body weakness.
image of a doctor in a lab doing drug, clinical research

Zaleplon Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Zaleplon?

82 active clinical trials are currently evaluating the efficacy of Zaleplon in the treatment of Insomnia.
Condition
Clinical Trials
Trial Phases
Insomnia
1 Actively Recruiting
Not Applicable

Zaleplon Reviews: What are patients saying about Zaleplon?

5Patient Review
10/16/2014
Zaleplon for Chronic Trouble Sleeping
I took this medicine before bed and woke up feeling incredibly angry five different times in the middle of the night. This has never been an issue for me, so I'm attributing it to the medication. I only took it once and will be asking my doctor for a new prescription.
5Patient Review
7/2/2022
Zaleplon for Difficulty Falling Asleep
This medication has really improved the quality of my life. I've been struggling with insomnia for decades, and this is the first medication that has given me some relief. It's important to keep in mind that it works quickly, so once you take it, you need to put down any electronics and just wait for it to kick in.
5Patient Review
3/19/2021
Zaleplon for Insomnia with Middle of the Night Awakening and 4 Hours Sleep Time Remaining
This medication is effective when I have already slept for a few hours and then wake up in the middle of the night.
4.7Patient Review
6/18/2016
Zaleplon for Insomnia with Middle of the Night Awakening and 4 Hours Sleep Time Remaining
I've taken this for an extended period of time due to nighttime awakening (after 3-4 hours sleep). I have no problems falling asleep. This medication usually wears off in the span of 3 to 4 hours, and I awaken feeling rested most times without any grogginess.
4.7Patient Review
8/24/2016
Zaleplon for Difficulty Falling Asleep
I find that this medication is really effective for when I have difficulty falling asleep. It usually only takes about half an hour before I'm out, and then I'll sleep soundly for four to six hours which is great.
View All Reviews
image of drug pills surrounding a glass of water symbolizing drug consumption

Patient Q&A Section about zaleplon

These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.

How long does it take for zaleplon to kick in?

"Both medications are taken by mouth immediately before bedtime. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes for them to start working."

Answered by AI

Is zaleplon a controlled substance?

"This final rule is effective May 6, 2003.

The DEA has placed the substance zaleplon, including its salts, into Schedule IV of the Controlled Substances Act. This final rule is effective May 6, 2003."

Answered by AI

Is zaleplon like Xanax?

"Zaleplon and Xanax are both drugs that serve different purposes. Zaleplon is a sedative/hypnotic that is used for treating insomnia on a short-term basis, while Xanax is an anti-anxiety medication used for treating anxiety orders and panic attacks."

Answered by AI

Is zaleplon good for sleep?

"Zaleplon is a sleeping pill that is used to treat insomnia. It works by slowing down the nervous system, which helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night."

Answered by AI

Clinical Trials for Zaleplon