Key takeaways
Zaleplon (Sonata) and doxepin (formerly branded as Sinequan) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Zaleplon is a sedative-hypnotic used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, specifically to help you fall asleep. It works quickly by acting on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain and is typically taken right before bedtime. In contrast, doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used to treat depression and anxiety by affecting serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Doxepin can take 2 to 3 weeks to show its full effects for depression and is usually taken once daily. Zaleplon is a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence, while doxepin is not. Both medications can cause drowsiness, but doxepin has a broader range of side effects, including dry mouth, constipation, and potential worsening of mood symptoms, especially in younger individuals. Additionally, doxepin requires careful monitoring for suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in people under 24 years old.
