Sonata (Zaleplon) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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May 26, 2012

Sonata

Sleep »

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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Sonata®
(zaleplon) Capsules

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Zaleplon is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic from the pyrazolopyrimidine class. The chemical name of zaleplon is N-[3-(3-cyanopyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7-yl)phenyl]-N-ethylacetamide. Its empirical formula is C₁₇H₁₅N₅O, and its molecular weight is 305.34. The structural formula is shown below.

Sonata (zaleplon) structural formula illustration

Zaleplon is a white to off-white powder that is practically insoluble in water and sparingly soluble in alcohol or propylene glycol. Its partition coefficient in octanol/water is constant (log PC = 1.23) over the pH range of 1 to 7.

Sonata® capsules contain zaleplon as the active ingredient. Inactive ingredients consist of microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, silicon dioxide, sodium lauryl sulfate, magnesium stearate, lactose, gelatin, titanium dioxide, D&C yellow #10, FD&C blue #1, FD&C green #3, and FD&C yellow #5.

What are the possible side effects of zaleplon (Sonata)?

Zaleplon may cause a severe allergic reaction. Stop taking zaleplon and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using zaleplon and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

aggression, agitation, changes in behavior;
thoughts of hurting yourself; or
hallucinations (hearing or seeing things).

Less serious side effects may...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Sonata »

What are the precautions when taking zaleplon (Sonata)?

Before taking zaleplon, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver problems, very high/low blood pressure, breathing problems (e.g., asthma), depression, history of drug/alcohol abuse.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.

To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting...

Read All Potential Precautions of Sonata »

Last reviewed on RxList: 1/2/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.