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LoclareMeds

Zolpidem – sleeping medicine for short-term use

This page gives a simpler explanation of what Zolpidem is used for and which common side effects may occur.

Other names

  • Stilnoct sanofi-aventis tabl. K – View photo
  • Zolpidem Forza Forza Advance tabl.

What is it used for?

Zolpidem is a sleeping medicine for adults. It reduces brain activity and makes it easier to fall asleep. It is used for short periods, including as temporary help for long-standing sleep problems. The medicine can cause dependence. The risk increases with the dose and the length of use.

Side effects (tap to view)
Possible side effects of zolpidem tablets are listed below.

Common side effects:
- Sleepiness or tiredness
- Dizziness or headache
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach pain
- Gaps in memory for events after taking the medicine
- Nightmares or worsening sleep problems
- Hallucinations, such as seeing or hearing things that are not there
- Intense agitation or depression

Uncommon side effects:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion or irritability
- Blurred or double vision
- Sleepwalking or other activities while not fully awake, with no memory of them afterwards

Rare side effects:
- Falls or unsteady walking
- Reduced consciousness

Very rare side effects:
- Slow or shallow breathing

Side effects with unknown frequency:
- Swelling, often around the face or lips, which may make breathing difficult

Zolpidem can cause sleepiness, slower reactions and impaired driving ability the next day.

If physical dependence has developed, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. Sleep problems may also temporarily worsen when treatment ends.

Source: Felleskatalogen – Stilnoct (sanofi-aventis)

Last reviewed: