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Compare Sonata vs. Restoril

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

Key takeaways

Zaleplon (Sonata) and temazepam (Restoril) are both medications used to treat insomnia, but they have some key differences. Zaleplon is a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic that helps you fall asleep quickly but doesn't help you stay asleep. In contrast, temazepam is a benzodiazepine that helps you both fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Zaleplon is typically used for short-term treatment up to 30 days, while temazepam is recommended for even shorter periods, usually 7 to 10 days. Both medications can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, but temazepam has a higher risk of causing complex behaviors like sleep-driving. Additionally, temazepam can cause a "hangover" feeling the next day, which is less common with zaleplon. Both are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.

  • Zaleplon
    Temazepam (Restoril)
  • Zaleplon
    Temazepam (Restoril)

  • Summary of Sonata vs. Restoril

    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 Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Temazepam (Restoril) is a short-term option for people who have insomnia (trouble sleeping). It's a benzodiazepine, so taking it can lead to misuse, addiction, and sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it. For this reason, it's a controlled substance, so you'll need close follow-up with your provider to make sure this medication remains safe for you to take. Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, nervousness, and sometimes a "hangover" feeling the next morning after your dose. The medication available as a brand name (Restoril) and a generic version.

  • Indications of Sonata vs. Restoril

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (trouble falling asleep)
    Indications for
    •Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)

  • Pros and Cons of Sonata vs. Restoril

    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 Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Can help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night
    •Only taken once a day at bedtime
    •Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can cause memory problems, dizziness, and confusion
    •Can worsen suicidal thoughts in some people with depression
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
    •Only recommended for short-term use (7 to 10 days)
    •Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding

  • Common Side Effects of Sonata vs. Restoril

    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
    •Drowsiness (9%)
    •Headache (9%)
    •Fatigue or exhaustion (5%)
    •Nervousness (5%)
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Dizziness (5%)
    •Nausea (3%)

  • Warnings of Sonata vs. Restoril

    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
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Risk of misuse and addiction
    •Risk of dependence and withdrawal
    •Complex behaviors
    •Harm to babies
    •Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
    •Severe allergic reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Sonata vs. Restoril

    Learn more about Zaleplon
    Learn more about Temazepam

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