Key takeaways
Zaleplon (Sonata) and doxylamine (Unisom SleepTabs) are both used to help with sleep, but they work in different ways and have some key differences. Zaleplon is a prescription-only sedative-hypnotic that helps you fall asleep quickly by working on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in your brain. It's a controlled substance and can be habit-forming, so it's only recommended for short-term use (up to 30 days). On the other hand, doxylamine is an over-the-counter antihistamine that makes you sleepy by blocking histamine in your brain. It's not a controlled substance and can be used by adults and children 12 years and older. Zaleplon is best if you need help falling asleep but not staying asleep, while doxylamine can make you sleepy throughout the next day and isn't recommended for older adults or people with certain medical conditions. Both medications should be taken right before bedtime, but zaleplon works faster, usually within 20 to 30 minutes, compared to doxylamine, which takes about 30 minutes to start working.
