Zaleplon
Zaleplon is a short-acting hypnotic used for selected sleep-onset insomnia. It does not treat underlying causes of persistent poor sleep.
Key points
- Complex sleep behaviours can occur while not fully awake and require stopping treatment and urgent review.
- Alcohol, opioids and other sedatives increase breathing and impairment risks.
- Tolerance, dependence and withdrawal can occur with ongoing use.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on sleep assessment, prescription, sedative review and pharmacy checks.
What zaleplon is used for
Zaleplon may be used for selected short-term difficulty falling asleep after assessment of sleep routine, breathing, mental health and other causes.
Important safety checks
Review sleep apnoea, breathing disease, liver impairment, falls, substance-use history, pregnancy and every sedating medicine. Do not drive if impaired.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for overdose, difficulty waking, slowed breathing, dangerous behaviour while asleep, severe confusion, suicidal intent, facial swelling or breathing difficulty.