(Legend)

Generic Name

• Zaleplon
  T½ = Unknown
  Pregnancy category C

Trade Name

• Sonata

Dose Range/Adult Daily Dose

• Range: 5–20 mg hs
  Usual: 10 mg po hs. Use no longer than 7–10 d

Use/Common Side Effects (CSE)

• Use: Short-term insomnia, unable to initiate sleep
  CSE: Drowsiness, dizziness, anxiety, amnesia (see FDA warning)

Geriatric & Dose Considerations

• Lower dose: Start at 5 mg hs, to maximum of 10 mg po hs
  Caution: Mild/moderate hepatic impairment

Classification

• Sedative/hypnotic

Assessment Cautions

• Contraindicated: Severe hepatic impairment. Avoid other CNS depressants (alcohol, opioids, kava)