What it is used for
- Short-term treatment of insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep)
How it works
Zolpidem acts on the same calming GABA system in the brain as benzodiazepines, but is more focused on promoting sleep. It helps people fall asleep faster and is intended for short-term use.
How it is taken
Usually available as standard and modified-release tablets, and as a sublingual (under-the-tongue) form in some regions. It is taken by mouth right before bed, only when you can devote a full night to sleep. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label; it is intended for short-term use.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Next-day grogginess
- Altered taste
- Nausea
- Unsteadiness
Serious effects — get help
- Complex sleep behaviours: sleep-walking, sleep-driving, eating or making calls while not fully awake, with no memory of it (stop and seek advice)
- Severe drowsiness or slowed breathing, especially with alcohol or other sedatives
- Memory problems
- Falls, particularly in older adults
- Severe allergic reaction (facial or throat swelling)
- Worsening depression or unusual thoughts
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Alcohol (dangerous added sedation and higher risk of complex sleep behaviours)
- Opioid painkillers and other sedatives
- Sedating antidepressants and antihistamines
- Some medicines that affect how the liver processes it
Who should take care
- Take it only when you can get a full night's sleep, and avoid activities like driving until fully awake
- Do not take with alcohol
- Stop and seek advice if you experience sleep-walking or other complex behaviours
- Use lower caution amounts in older adults because of falls and confusion
- Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding; risk of dependence with prolonged use