Rozerem (Ramelteon) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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What is sleep?

There are over 20 definitions of "sleep" in several dictionaries. The first, a verb, seems most appropriate:

to take the rest afforded by a suspension of voluntary bodily functions and the natural suspension, complete or partial, of consciousness; cease being awake.

Physiologically, sleep is a complex process of restoration and renewal for the body. Scientists still do not have a definitive explanation for why humans have a need for sleep. We do know that sleep is not a passive process or "switching off" of body functions; sleep is believed to be important in many physiologic processes including the processing of experiences and the consolidation of memories. It is also clear that sleep is essential, not only for humans but for almost all animals.

The importance of sleep is underscored by the symptoms experienced by those suffering from sleep problems. People s...

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Rozerem Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ramelteon (Rozerem)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to ramelteon, or if you have severe liver disease.

You should not take ramelteon if you are also taking the antidepressant fluvoxamine (Luvox).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use ramelteon:

liver disease;
sleep apnea (breathing stops while you are asleep);
a breathing disorder such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); or
a history of depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether ramelteon is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether ramelteon passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Ramelteon may affect the levels of male or female hormones (testosterone or prolactin). This may affect menstrual periods in women, sexual desire in men, or fertility (ability to have children) in either a man or a woman.

How should I take ramelteon (Rozerem)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medication with a full glass of water.

Take ramelteon 30 minutes before your normal bedtime. After you take ramelteon, avoid doing anything other than getting ready for bed.

Avoid taking ramelteon together with or just after eating a high-fat meal. This will make it harder for your body to absorb the medication.

Talk with your doctor if your insomnia does not improve after 7 days of using ramelteon. You may need to be checked for other medical illnesses that may cause insomnia.

Store ramelteon at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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