Description
Zolpidem 10mg Tablets are used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, particularly in cases where sleep problems are severe, disabling, or causing significant distress. They help you fall asleep faster and improve overall sleep quality.
Each tablet contains zolpidem tartrate (10mg), a sedative-hypnotic that works by acting on brain receptors to produce a calming effect and promote sleep.
Active ingredient: Zolpidem Tartrate 10mg
Form: Tablets
Use: Short-term treatment of insomnia
Suitable for: Adults aged 18 years and over
Zolpidem is suitable for short-term use in adults and should be taken under medical supervision due to the risk of dependence.
Do not use if:
- You are allergic to zolpidem or any of the ingredients
- You have severe liver problems
- You have sleep apnoea or severe breathing difficulties
- You have a history of sleepwalking or complex sleep behaviours after taking sleep medicines
- You are breastfeeding
Before taking this medicine:
Before starting treatment, you should discuss your medical history with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a history of mental health conditions, substance misuse, or respiratory issues.
Zolpidem can cause dependence, particularly with prolonged use. Therefore, treatment duration should be limited.
Dosage:
Adults:
- Take 10mg immediately before bedtime
- Only take when you are able to have a full night’s sleep (7–8 hours)
Older adults or those with liver impairment:
- A lower dose (5mg) is usually recommended
Method: Oral use
Always take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
Important warnings:
- Treatment duration is usually limited to a few days to 2 weeks (maximum 4 weeks including tapering)
- Do not exceed the recommended dose
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine
- Do not take a second dose during the same night
- Do not stop suddenly after prolonged use; reduce dose gradually
Zolpidem may cause drowsiness the next day, particularly if not enough sleep is achieved.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
- Should only be used during pregnancy if advised by a doctor
- Do not use while breastfeeding
Driving and operating machinery:
This medicine can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery, especially the day after taking it.
It is an offence to drive if this medicine affects your ability. However, you would not be committing an offence if:
- It was prescribed for a medical condition
- You followed the instructions provided
- It did not affect your ability to drive safely
Side effects:
Like all medicines, zolpidem can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
- Allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Unusual sleep behaviours (e.g. sleepwalking, driving while not fully awake)
Common side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Diarrhoea
Less common but more serious effects may include:
- Memory problems
- Mood or behaviour changes (e.g. agitation, hallucinations)
- Dependence or withdrawal symptoms
- Daytime drowsiness affecting alertness
Interactions:
Zolpidem can interact with other medicines. For example:
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Sedatives or sleeping tablets
- Opioid painkillers
- Alcohol
These may increase sedation and the risk of breathing problems.
Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications you are taking.
Suitable for short-term use only
Always read the patient information leaflet before use
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional