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Sonata vs. Ativan

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

Key takeaways

Zaleplon (Sonata) and lorazepam (Ativan) are both prescription medications to help with sleep, but they belong to different drug classes. Zaleplon is a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic, often called a "z-drug," and is specifically used for treating insomnia by helping you fall asleep. Lorazepam, on the other hand, is a benzodiazepine primarily used for anxiety disorders, but can also help with sleep due to its calming effects. Zaleplon is taken orally right before bed and works quickly, within about 30 minutes, but it doesn't help you stay asleep throughout the night. For sleep, lorazepam is usually 1 tablet by mouth at night, with effects felt within 30 minutes to 2 hours. Both medications are controlled substances because they can lead to misuse and dependence. Common side effects of both medications include sleepiness and dizziness. It's important to avoid alcohol with both medications, as it can increase the risk of serious side effects.

Zaleplon

 

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Lorazepam

(Ativan)

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Summary for Sonata

Prescription only

Zaleplon, once sold under the brand name Sonata, is a prescription sleep medication for adults. It helps with insomnia (trouble falling asleep). It's a type of sedative-hypnotic called a non-benzodiazepine, or "z-drug." You take it by mouth right before bed or when you're already in bed and can't fall asleep. Zaleplon is a controlled substance because it has a risk of misuse and dependence. Side effects can include headache and dizziness.

Indications for Sonata

Pros and Cons for Sonata

Pros

Cons

  • Not shown to help with staying asleep throughout the night
  • Not usually recommended to take for more than 30 days because it can be habit-forming

Common Side Effects for Sonata

  • Headache (up to 42%)
  • Dizziness (up to 9%)
  • Nausea (up to 8%)
  • Weakness (up to 7%)
  • Sleepiness the next day (6%)
  • Stomach pain (up to 6%)

Warnings for Sonata

  • Doing things while not fully awake
  • Sleepiness and trouble focusing the next day
  • Dependence and withdrawal
  • Abnormal thoughts and unusual behavior
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Caution use in people with breathing problems or depression

Summary for Ativan

Prescription only

Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine used for short-term treatment of anxiety. The oral tablets and solution are taken by mouth, typically 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the formulation. Lorazepam is also available as an injectable medication that's given by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting to control seizures. Sleepiness and dizziness are the most common side effects of lorazepam (Ativan).

Indications for Ativan

Pros and Cons for Ativan

Pros

  • Taken by mouth
  • Might start to work within 30 minutes to manage anxiety symptoms
  • Available as oral solution, good option for those who can't swallow tablets
  • Some forms available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Short-term use only because risk of dependence and memory problems
  • Can drowsiness, and dizziness
  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
  • Can't take with alcohol

Common Side Effects for Ativan

  • Sleepiness (16%)
  • Dizziness (7%)
  • Weakness (4%)
  • Unsteadiness (3%)

Warnings for Ativan

  • Sedation and difficulty breathing
  • Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
  • Depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Effect on driving and concentration
  • Trouble breathing
  • Risk of agitation and restlessness
  • Harm to babies
  • Serious allergic reaction (Loreev XR only)

Prices with our coupons for Sonata vs. Ativan

Price Card Drug Icon
Zaleplon30 capsules / 10mg
$14.81$49.12
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Price Card Drug Icon
Lorazepam30 tablets / 1mg
$11.41$18.44
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