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Rozerem vs. Estazolam

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ramelteon (Rozerem) and estazolam (Prosom) are both medications used to treat insomnia, but they have some key differences. Ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist that works like the natural hormone melatonin to help you fall asleep. It's not a controlled substance and isn't known to be habit-forming. On the other hand, Estazolam is a benzodiazepine that slows down brain activity to help you relax and stay asleep, but it's not a first-choice treatment for insomnia. It is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has a risk of misuse and dependence, and is only recommended for short-term use. Ramelteon is taken 30 minutes before bedtime on an empty stomach, while estazolam should be taken right before getting into bed. Ramelteon has fewer side effects, such as dizziness and sleepiness, whereas estazolam can cause more frequent side effects like sleepiness, headache, and weakness. Additionally, estazolam is not recommended for use in older adults due to the increased risk of falls.

Ramelteon

(Rozerem)

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Estazolam

(Prosom)

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Summary for Rozerem

Prescription only

Ramelteon (Rozerem) is a sleeping pill used to treat insomnia in adults. It belongs to the drug class known as melatonin receptor agonists and works like melatonin. Ramelteon (Rozerem) is taken by mouth, typically about 30 minutes before bedtime. Unlike some other prescription sleep medications, ramelteon (Rozerem) isn't a controlled substance nor known to be habit-forming. Side effects of ramelteon (Rozerem) aren't common, but can include drowsiness and dizziness.

Indications for Rozerem

Pros and Cons for Rozerem

Pros

  • Taken by mouth
  • Not a controlled substance and isn't known to be habit-forming
  • Fewer side effects than some other sleep medications
  • Available as a generic medication

Cons

  • Shouldn't take with or right after a high-fat meal
  • Can interact with many medications, including fluconazole, rifampin, and fluvoxamine
  • Not recommended for people with sleep apnea or severe liver problems

Common Side Effects for Rozerem

  • Dizziness (4%)
  • Sleepiness (3%)
  • Fatigue (3%)
  • Nausea (3%)
  • Worsening insomnia (3%)

Warnings for Rozerem

  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Changes in behavior and unusual thoughts
  • Other causes of insomnia
  • Caution while driving
  • Hormonal changes

Summary for Estazolam

Prescription only

Estazolam (Prosom) is a sleeping pill that can help adults with insomnia fall asleep and stay asleep. It's a benzodiazepine medication that's not a first-choice treatment option for trouble sleeping, and it's only meant for short-term use since it can be habit-forming. It comes as a tablet that you take by mouth right before you get into bed. It's only available as a generic since the brand-name medication, Prosom, is no longer on the market. In addition to causing sleepiness, other common side effects can include headache, weakness, and nervousness.

Indications for Estazolam

Pros and Cons for Estazolam

Pros

  • Helps you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Don't need to take every day for it to work well

Cons

  • Is a controlled substance, so there is a risk for misuse and dependency
  • Can cause sleep-driving or unusual behaviors during sleep
  • Might not be safe in older adults since it raises the risk of falls

Common Side Effects for Estazolam

  • Sleepiness (42%)
  • Headache (16%)
  • Weakness (11%)
  • Slow muscle movement (8%)
  • Nervousness (8%)
  • Dizziness (7%)
  • General discomfort (5%)

Warnings for Estazolam

  • Sedation and difficulty breathing
  • Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
  • Effect on driving and concentration
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Abnormal behaviors during sleep
  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

Prices with our coupons for Rozerem vs. Estazolam

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Ramelteon30 tablets / 8mg
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Estazolam30 tablets / 2mg
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