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Compare Sonata vs. Rozerem

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

Key takeaways

Zaleplon (Sonata) and ramelteon (Rozerem) are both medications used to treat insomnia, but they work in different ways and have distinct characteristics. Zaleplon is a sedative-hypnotic that works on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors to help you fall asleep quickly, but it is a controlled substance and can be habit-forming. It is typically used for short-term treatment and may cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. On the other hand, ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist that mimics the natural hormone melatonin to regulate your sleep cycle. It is not a controlled substance and is not known to be habit-forming. Ramelteon has fewer side effects and is available as a generic medication, but it should not be taken with or right after a high-fat meal. While both medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness, zaleplon has a higher risk of causing unusual behaviors like sleep-walking and sleep-driving.

  • Zaleplon
    Ramelteon (Rozerem)
  • Zaleplon
    Ramelteon (Rozerem)

  • Summary of Sonata vs. Rozerem

    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 Melatonin receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Ramelteon (Rozerem) is a sleeping pill used to treat insomnia in adults. It belongs to the drug class known as melatonin receptor agonists and works like melatonin. Ramelteon (Rozerem) is taken by mouth, typically about 30 minutes before bedtime. Unlike some other prescription sleep medications, ramelteon (Rozerem) isn't a controlled substance nor known to be habit-forming. Side effects of ramelteon (Rozerem) aren't common, but can include drowsiness and dizziness.

  • Indications of Sonata vs. Rozerem

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (trouble falling asleep)
    Indications for
    •Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep)

  • Pros and Cons of Sonata vs. Rozerem

    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 Melatonin receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Not a controlled substance and isn't known to be habit-forming
    •Fewer side effects than some other sleep medications
    •Available as a generic medication
    Cons
    •Shouldn't take with or right after a high-fat meal
    •Can interact with many medications, including fluconazole, rifampin, and fluvoxamine
    •Not recommended for people with sleep apnea or severe liver problems

  • Common Side Effects of Sonata vs. Rozerem

    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
    •Dizziness (4%)
    •Sleepiness (3%)
    •Fatigue (3%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Worsening insomnia (3%)

  • Warnings of Sonata vs. Rozerem

    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
    •Severe allergic reaction
    •Changes in behavior and unusual thoughts
    •Other causes of insomnia
    •Caution while driving
    •Hormonal changes

  • Prices with our coupons for Sonata vs. Rozerem

    Learn more about Zaleplon
    Learn more about Ramelteon

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