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Sonata vs. Klonopin

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

Key takeaways

Zaleplon (Sonata) and clonazepam (Klonopin) are both medications that can help with sleep-related issues, but they belong to different drug classes and have different primary uses. Zaleplon is a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic, often called a "z-drug," and is specifically used to treat insomnia by helping you fall asleep. Clonazepam, on the other hand, is a benzodiazepine that is FDA-approved to treat seizures and panic disorder. While zaleplon is taken once as needed for sleep, clonazepam is typically taken two or three times a day. Both medications are controlled substances due to the risk of misuse and dependence, and you should avoid alcohol while taking them. 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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Clonazepam

(Klonopin)

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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 Klonopin

Prescription only

Clonazepam (Klonopin) is a benzodiazepine. It's approved to treat seizures in adults and children, and panic disorder in adults only. Clonazepam (Klonopin) is taken by mouth, typically two or three times a day. It's also available as orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) for people who have trouble swallowing. Some common side effects of this medication include drowsiness, dizziness, and poor movement control. Before stopping clonazepam (Klonopin), speak with your prescriber to come up with a plan to lower your dose slowly over time to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Indications for Klonopin

Pros and Cons for Klonopin

Pros

Cons

  • Taken 2 to 3 times daily
  • Can be habit-forming, so isn't typically used for long-term treatment
  • Can cause memory problems, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion
  • Might not work as well for seizure control over time

Common Side Effects for Klonopin

Seizures:

  • Drowsiness (50%)
  • Poor movement control, clumsiness (30%)
  • Behavior problems (25%)

Panic Disorder:

  • Drowsiness (up to 50%)
  • Dizziness (up to 12%)
  • Runny nose, sore throat, and other symptoms of a respiratory infection (up to 10%)
  • Extreme tiredness (up to 9%)
  • Poor movement control, clumsiness (up to 9%)
  • Depression (up to 8%)

Warnings for Klonopin

  • Sedation and difficulty breathing
  • Potential for misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Effect on driving and concentration
  • Harm to babies
  • Worsening of seizures

Prices with our coupons for Sonata vs. Klonopin

Price Card Drug Icon
Zaleplon30 capsules / 10mg
$14.81$49.11
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Price Card Drug Icon
Clonazepam30 tablets / 0.5mg
$9.72$34.48
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