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Compare Sonata vs. Desyrel

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

Key takeaways

Zaleplon (Sonata) and trazodone (Desyrel) are both used to help with sleep, but they work in different ways and are used for different primary purposes. Zaleplon is a sedative-hypnotic medication specifically designed to help you fall asleep quickly, but it doesn't help you stay asleep through the night. It's a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. On the other hand, trazodone is an atypical antidepressant primarily used to treat depression, but it is sometimes prescribed off-label for insomnia. Unlike zaleplon, trazodone is not a controlled substance and doesn't carry the same risk of dependence. Zaleplon works by affecting gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, while trazodone affects serotonin levels. Zaleplon is taken right before bedtime and works within 20 to 30 minutes, whereas trazodone can be taken once or several times a day, depending on the condition being treated. Both medications can cause drowsiness and should not be mixed with alcohol.

  • Zaleplon
    Trazodone
  • Zaleplon
    Trazodone

  • Summary of Sonata vs. Desyrel

    Summary for Sedative-hypnotic
    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.

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it isn't a first-choice option. In addition, trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label for difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This medication is taken by mouth, typically once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Brand name Desyrel has been discontinued.

  • Indications of Sonata vs. Desyrel

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (trouble falling asleep)
    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)

  • Pros and Cons of Sonata vs. Desyrel

    Pros and Const for Sedative-hypnotic
    Pros
    •Works within 30 minutes or so to help you fall asleep
    •Low risk of causing daytime sleepiness since it doesn't stay very long in the body
    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
    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Fewer sexual side effects than some other antidepressants
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Starts to work within a week for treating depression
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice medication for depression
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it

  • Common Side Effects of Sonata vs. Desyrel

    Common Side Effects for
    •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%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (up to 41%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 34%)
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness (up to 28%)
    •Headache (up to 20%)
    •Blurred vision (up to 15%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (up to 13%)

  • Warnings of Sonata vs. Desyrel

    Common Side Effects for
    •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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Dizziness from lower blood pressure
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Glaucoma
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Withdrawal

  • Prices with our coupons for Sonata vs. Desyrel

    Learn more about Zaleplon
    Learn more about Trazodone

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