About zolpidem tartrate
Non-benzodiazepine sleep medicine
Used for
- Short-term treatment of insomnia, especially difficulty falling asleep
Usual adult dose
Usually 5–10 mg once nightly immediately before bed; use the lowest effective dose.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Headache
- Memory problems
- Unusual sleep behaviours, such as sleepwalking
Important warnings
- Allow at least 7–8 hours for sleep after taking it.
- Risk of dependence, misuse, and withdrawal increases with prolonged use.
- Do not combine with alcohol or other medicines that cause sleepiness.
- Avoid driving if drowsy or impaired the next day.
Pregnancy
Use is generally avoided, especially late in pregnancy; discuss risks with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Passes into breast milk; may cause infant sleepiness or poor feeding. Seek professional guidance.
Interactions
- Alcohol and sedatives can dangerously increase drowsiness and breathing problems.
- Opioids increase the risk of profound sedation and breathing suppression.
- Some antibiotics, antifungals, and HIV medicines may increase zolpidem effects.
- Rifampicin and St John’s wort may reduce its effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.