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Sonata vs. Restoril

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.

• Insomnia (trouble falling asleep)

• 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%)

• 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

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.

• Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)

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

• 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