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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

ZOLPIDEM SPRAY - ORAL

(ZOL-pi-dem)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zolpimist

USES: Zolpidem is used for a short time to treat sleep problems (insomnia) in adults. If you have trouble falling asleep, it helps you fall asleep faster, so you can get a better night's rest. Zolpidem belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics. It acts on your brain to produce a calming effect.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and the Patient Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using zolpidem and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Prime the product according to the instructions before you use it for the first time and if you have not used it for at least 14 days. Point the spray away from your face and other people while you are priming it.

Spray this medication into your mouth over your tongue as directed by your doctor, usually once a night. Since zolpidem works quickly, use it right before you get into bed. Use it on an empty stomach. Do not use it with or right after a meal because it will not work as quickly.

Do not use a dose of this drug unless you have time for a full night's sleep of at least 7 to 8 hours. If you have to wake up before that, you may have some memory loss.

Dosage is based on your medical condition, other medications you may be taking, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose, use it more often, or use it for longer than prescribed. Do not use more than 10 milligrams a day. Older adults are usually prescribed a lower dose to decrease the risk of side effects.

This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, flushing, stomach cramps, nervousness, shakiness) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.

Along with its benefits, this medication may rarely cause abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction). This risk may be increased if you have abused alcohol or drugs in the past. Use this medication exactly as prescribed to lessen the risk of addiction.

When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists after 7 to 10 days, or if it worsens.

You may have trouble sleeping the first few nights after you stop using this medication. This is called rebound insomnia and is normal. It will usually go away after 1-2 nights. If this effect continues, contact your doctor.