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TL;DR — Quick Summary
Key facts from the full medication guide below
🩺What it's for
Zolpidem tartrate tablets are indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep initiation. Zolpidem tartrate tablets have been shown to decrease sleep latency for up to 35 days in controlled clinical studies [see Clinical Studies (14)]. The clinical trials performed in support of efficacy were 4 to 5 weeks in duration with the final formal assessments of sleep latency performed at the end of treatment.
💊How to take it
Use the lowest dose effective for the patient and must not exceed a total of 10 mg daily (2.1) Treatment should be as short as possible (2.1) Recommended initial dose is a single dose of 5 mg for women and a single dose of 5 or 10 mg for men, immediately before bedtime with at least 7 to 8 hours remaining before the planned time of awakening (2.1) Geriatric patients and patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment: Recommended dose is 5 mg for men and women (2.2) Lower doses of CNS…
ℹ️Common side effects
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Complex Sleep Behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] CNS-Depressant Effects and Next-Day Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Severe Anaphylactic and Anaphylactoid Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] Abnormal Thinking and Behavior Changes [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Withdrawal effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Most commonly observed…
⚠️Serious risks
Complex sleep behaviors including sleep-walking, sleep-driving, and engaging in other activities while not fully awake may occur following use of zolpidem tartrate tablets. Some of these events may result in serious injuries, including death. Discontinue zolpidem tartrate tablets immediately if a patient experiences a complex sleep behaviors [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. WARNING: COMPLEX SLEEP BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
📋Interactions & cautions
CNS depressants, including alcohol: Possible adverse additive CNS-depressant effects (5.2, 7.1) Opioids: Concomitant use may increase risk of respiratory depression (5.7, 7.1) Imipramine: Decreased alertness observed (7.1) Chlorpromazine: Impaired alertness and psychomotor performance observed (7.1) CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin or St.John s wort): Combination use may decrease effect (7.2) Ketoconazole: Combination use may increase effect (7.2)
📦Storage & missed dose
Zolpidem tartrate tablets, USP are available as follows: 5 mg, are white, round-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, with ZLP debossed on one side and 5 on the other side. NDC 0781-5317-31, bottle of 30 tablets NDC 0781-5317-01, bottle of 100 tablets NDC 0781-5317-05, bottle of 500 tablets NDC 0781-5317-10, bottle of 1000 tablets 10 mg, are yellow, round-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, with ZLP debossed on one side and 10 on the other side.
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Zolpidem (zzzINACTIVEzzz • Ambien) Prices
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Complex sleep behaviors including sleep-walking, sleep-driving, and engaging in other activities while not fully awake may occur following use of zolpidem tartrate tablets. Some of these events may result in serious injuries, including death. Discontinue zolpidem tartrate tablets immediately if a patient experiences a complex sleep behaviors [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. WARNING: COMPLEX SLEEP BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
Zolpidem tartrate tablets are indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep initiation. Zolpidem tartrate tablets have been shown to decrease sleep latency for up to 35 days in controlled clinical studies [see Clinical Studies (14)]. The clinical trials performed in support of efficacy were 4 to 5 weeks in duration with the final formal assessments of sleep latency performed at the end of treatment. Zolpidem tartrate tablets are, a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptor positive modulator, is indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep initiation. (1)
Use the lowest dose effective for the patient and must not exceed a total of 10 mg daily (2.1) Treatment should be as short as possible (2.1) Recommended initial dose is a single dose of 5 mg for women and a single dose of 5 or 10 mg for men, immediately before bedtime with at least 7 to 8 hours remaining before the planned time of awakening (2.1) Geriatric patients and patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment: Recommended dose is 5 mg for men and women (2.2) Lower doses of CNS depressants may be necessary when taken concomitantly with zolpidem tartrate tablets (2.3) The effect of zolpidem tartrate tablets may be slowed if taken with or immediately after a meal (2.4)
Use the lowest effective dose for the patient. The recommended initial dose is 5 mg for women and either 5 or 10 mg for men, taken only once per night immediately before bedtime with at least 7 to 8 hours remaining before the planned time of awakening. If the 5 mg dose is not effective, the dose can be increased to 10 mg. In some patients, the higher morning blood levels following use of the 10 mg dose increase the risk of next-day impairment of driving and other activities that require full alertness [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. The total dose of zolpidem tartrate tablets should not exceed 10 mg once daily immediately before bedtime. Zolpidem tartrate tablets should be taken as a single dose and should not be readministered during the same night. The recommended initial doses for women and men are different because zolpidem clearance is lower in women. Long-term use of zolpidem tartrate tablets is not recommended. Treatment should be as short as possible. Extended treatment should not take place without re-evaluation of the patient's status because the risk of abuse and dependence increases with the duration of treatment [see Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.3)].
Elderly or debilitated patients may be especially sensitive to the effects of zolpidem tartrate. The recommended dose of zolpidem tartrate tablets in these patients is 5 mg once daily immediately before bedtime [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ), Use in Specific Populations (8.5)]. Patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment do not clear the drug as rapidly as normal subjects. The recommended dose of zolpidem tartrate tablets in these patients is 5 mg once daily immediately before bedtime. Avoid zolpidem tartrate tablets use in patients with severe hepatic impairment as it may contribute to encephalopathy [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 ), Use in Specific Populations (8.7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Dosage adjustment may be necessary when zolpidem tartrate tablets are combined with other CNS-depressant drugs because of the potentially additive effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.7)].
The effect of zolpidem tartrate tablets may be slowed by ingestion with or immediately after a meal.
Zolpidem tartrate tablets, USP are available in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths for oral administration. Tablets are not scored. Zolpidem tartrate tablets, USP 5 mg are white, round-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, with ZLP debossed on one side and 5 on the other side. Zolpidem tartrate tablets, USP 10 mg tablets are yellow, round-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, with ZLP debossed on one side and 10 on the other side. 5 mg and 10 mg tablets. Tablets not scored. (3)
Zolpidem tartrate is contraindicated in patients who have experienced complex sleep behaviors after taking zolpidem tartrate tablets [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. with known hypersensitivity to zolpidem. Observed reactions include anaphylaxis and angioedema [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. Patients who have experienced complex sleep behaviors after taking zolpidem tartrate tablets (4) Known hypersensitivity to zolpidem (4)
CNS-Depressant Effects: Impaired alertness and motor coordination including risk of morning impairment. Risk increases with dose and use with other CNS depressants and alcohol. Caution patients against driving and other activities requiring mental alertness the morning after use. Instruct patients on correct use. (5.2) Need to Evaluate for Comorbid Diagnoses: Re-evaluate if insomnia persists after 7 to 10 days of use. (5.3) Severe Anaphylactic/Anaphylactoid Reactions: Angioedema and anaphylaxis have been reported. Do not rechallenge if such reactions occur. (5.4) Abnormal Thinking and Behavioral Changes: Changes including decreased inhibition, bizarre behavior, agitation, and depersonalization have been reported. Immediately evaluate any new onset behavioral changes. (5.5) Depression: Worsening of depression or suicidal thinking may occur. Prescribe the least amount of tablets feasible to avoid intentional overdose. (5.6) Respiratory Depression: Consider this risk before prescribing in patients with compromised respiratory function. (5.7) Hepatic Impairment: Avoid zolpidem tartrate use in patients with severe hepatic impairment. (5.8) Withdrawal Effects: Symptoms may occur with rapid dose reduction or discontinuation. (5.9, 9.3)
Complex sleep behaviors, including sleep-walking, sleep-driving, and engaging in other activities while not fully awake, may occur following the first or any subsequent use of zolpidem tartrate. Patients can be seriously injured or injure others during complex sleep behaviors. Such injuries may result in a fatal outcome. Other complex sleep behaviors (e.g., preparing and eating food, making phone calls, or having sex) have also been reported. Patients usually do not remember these events. Postmarketing reports have shown that complex sleep behaviors may occur with zolpidem tartrate alone at recommended doses, with or without the concomitant use of alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. Discontinue zolpidem tartrate immediately if a patient experiences a complex sleep behavior [see Contraindications (4)].
Zolpidem tartrate, like other sedative-hypnotic drugs, has CNS-depressant effects. Coadministration with other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, tricyclic antidepressants, alcohol) increases the risk of CNS depression [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. Dosage adjustments of zolpidem tartrate and of other concomitant CNS depressants may be necessary when zolpidem tartrate is administered with such agents because of the potentially additive effects. The use of zolpidem tartrate with other sedative-hypnotics (including other zolpidem products) at bedtime or the middle of the night is not recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. The risk of next-day psychomotor impairment, including impaired driving, is increased if zolpidem tartrate is taken with less than a full night of sleep remaining (7 to 8 hours); if a higher than the recommended dose is taken; if coadministered with other CNS depressants or alcohol; or if coadministered with other drugs that increase the blood levels of zolpidem. Patients should be warned against driving and other activities requiring complete mental alertness if zolpidem tartrate is taken in these circumstances [see Dosage and Administration (2), Clinical Studies (14.3)]. Vehicle drivers and machine operators should be warned that, as with other hypnotics, there may be a possible risk of adverse reactions including drowsiness, prolonged reaction time, dizziness, sleepiness, blurred/double vision, reduced alertness, and impaired driving the morning after therapy. In order to minimize this risk a full night of sleep (7 to 8 hours) is recommended. Because zolpidem tartrate can cause drowsiness and a decreased level of consciousness, patients, particularly the elderly, are at higher risk of falls.
Because sleep disturbances may be the presenting manifestation of a physical and/or psychiatric disorder, symptomatic treatment of insomnia should be initiated only after a careful evaluation of the patient. The failure of insomnia to remit after 7 to 10 days of treatment may indicate the presence of a primary psychiatric and/or medical illness that should be evaluated. Worsening of insomnia or the emergence of new thinking or behavior abnormalities may be the consequence of an unrecognized psychiatric or physical disorder. Such findings have emerged during the course of treatment with sedative/hypnotic drugs, including zolpidem.
Cases of angioedema involving the tongue, glottis or larynx have been reported in patients after taking the first or subsequent doses of sedative-hypnotics, including zolpidem. Some patients have had additional symptoms such as dyspnea, throat closing or nausea and vomiting that suggest anaphylaxis. Some patients have required medical therapy in the emergency department. If angioedema involves the throat, glottis or larynx, airway obstruction may occur and be fatal. Patients who develop angioedema after treatment with zolpidem should not be rechallenged with the drug.
Abnormal thinking and behavior changes have been reported in patients treated with sedative/hypnotics, including zolpidem tartrate. Some of these changes included decreased inhibition (e.g., aggressiveness and extroversion that seemed out of character), bizarre behavior, agitation and depersonalization. Visual and auditory hallucinations have been reported. In controlled trials of zolpidem tartrate 10 mg taken at bedtime < 1% of adults with insomnia reported hallucinations. In a clinical trial, 7% of pediatric patients treated with zolpidem tartrate 0.25 mg/kg taken at bedtime reported hallucinations versus 0% treated with placebo [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)]. There have been postmarketing reports of delirium with zolpidem use [Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. It can rarely be determined with certainty whether a particular instance of the abnormal behaviors listed above is drug induced, spontaneous in origin, or a result of an underlying psychiatric or physical disorder. Nonetheless, the emergence of any new behavioral sign or symptom of concern requires careful and immediate evaluation.
In primarily depressed patients treated with sedative-hypnotics, worsening of depression, and suicidal thoughts and actions (including completed suicides), have been reported. Suicidal tendencies may be present in such patients and protective measures may be required. Intentional overdosage is more common in this group of patients; therefore, the lowest number of tablets that is feasible should be prescribed for the patient at any one time.
Although studies with 10 mg zolpidem tartrate did not reveal respiratory depressant effects at hypnotic doses in healthy subjects or in patients with mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a reduction in the Total Arousal Index, together with a reduction in lowest oxygen saturation and increase in the times of oxygen desaturation below 80% and 90%, was observed in patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea when treated with zolpidem compared to placebo. Since sedative-hypnotics have the capacity to depress respiratory drive, precautions should be taken if zolpidem tartrate is prescribed to patients with compromised respiratory function or concomitant use with opioids or other CNS depressants. Postmarketing reports of respiratory insufficiency in patients receiving 10 mg of zolpidem tartrate, most of whom had pre-existing respiratory impairment, have been reported. The risk of respiratory depression should be considered prior to prescribing zolpidem tartrate in patients with respiratory impairment including sleep apnea and myasthenia gravis or with concomitant opioid use [see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Drug Interactions (7.1)].
Drugs affecting GABA receptors, such as zolpidem tartrate, have been associated with precipitation of hepatic encephalopathy in patients with hepatic insufficiency. In addition, patients with hepatic insufficiency do not clear zolpidem tartrate as rapidly as patients with normal hepatic function. Avoid zolpidem tartrate use in patients with severe hepatic impairment as it may contribute to encephalopathy [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Use in Specific Populations (8.7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
There have been reports of withdrawal signs and symptoms following the rapid dose decrease or abrupt discontinuation of zolpidem. Monitor patients for tolerance, abuse, and dependence [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2, 9.3)].
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Complex Sleep Behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] CNS-Depressant Effects and Next-Day Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Severe Anaphylactic and Anaphylactoid Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] Abnormal Thinking and Behavior Changes [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Withdrawal effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Most commonly observed adverse reactions were: Short-term (< 10 nights): Drowsiness, dizziness, and diarrhea Long-term (28 to 35 nights): Dizziness and drugged feelings (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Sandoz Inc. at 1-800-525-8747 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch
Effects on Sleep Stages In studies that measured the percentage of sleep time spent in each sleep stage, zolpidem tartrate has generally been shown to preserve sleep stages. Sleep time spent in stages 3 and 4 (deep sleep) was found comparable to placebo with only inconsistent, minor changes in REM (paradoxical) sleep at the recommended dose.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of zolpidem tartrate. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Liver and biliary system: acute hepatocellular, cholestatic or mixed liver injury with or without jaundice (i.e., bilirubin >2x ULN, alkaline phosphatase 2x ULN, transaminase 5x ULN). Psychiatric disorders: delirium
CNS depressants, including alcohol: Possible adverse additive CNS-depressant effects (5.2, 7.1) Opioids: Concomitant use may increase risk of respiratory depression (5.7, 7.1) Imipramine: Decreased alertness observed (7.1) Chlorpromazine: Impaired alertness and psychomotor performance observed (7.1) CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin or St.John s wort): Combination use may decrease effect (7.2) Ketoconazole: Combination use may increase effect (7.2)
CNS Depressants Coadministration of zolpidem with other CNS depressants increases the risk of CNS depression. Concomitant use of zolpidem with these drugs may increase drowsiness and psychomotor impairment, including impaired driving ability [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2)]. Zolpidem tartrate was evaluated in healthy volunteers in single-dose interaction studies for several CNS drugs. Alcohol An additive adverse effect on psychomotor performance between alcohol and oral zolpidem was demonstrated [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2)]. Opioids The concomitant use of zolpidem tartrate with opioids may increase the risk of respiratory depression. Limit dosage and duration of concomitant use of zolpidem tartrate and opioids [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3), Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. Imipramine, Chlorpromazine Imipramine in combination with zolpidem produced no pharmacokinetic interaction other than a 20% decrease in peak levels of imipramine, but there was an additive effect of decreased alertness. Similarly, chlorpromazine in combination with zolpidem produced no pharmacokinetic interaction, but there was an additive effect of decreased alertness and psychomotor performance [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Sertraline Concomitant administration of zolpidem and sertraline increases exposure to zolpidem [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3 ) ]. Fluoxetine After multiple doses of zolpidem tartrate and fluoxetine an increase in the zolpidem half-life (17%) was observed. There was no evidence of an additive effect in psychomotor performance [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Haloperidol A study involving haloperidol and zolpidem revealed no effect of haloperidol on the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of zolpidem. The lack of a drug interaction following single-dose administration does not predict the absence of an effect following chronic administration [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Some compounds known to induce or inhibit CYP3A may affect exposure to zolpidem. The effect of drugs that induce or inhibit other P450 enzymes on the exposure to zolpidem is not known.
Pregnancy: May cause respiratory depression and sedation in neonates with exposure late in the third trimester. (8.1) Lactation: A lactating woman may pump and discard breast milk during treatment and for 23 hours after zolpidem tartrate administration.(8.2) Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness not established. Hallucinations (incidence rate 7%) and other psychiatric and/or nervous system adverse reactions were observed frequently in a study of pediatric patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. (5.5, 8.4)
Risk Summary Neonates born to mothers using zolpidem late in the third trimester of pregnancy have been reported to experience symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation [see Clinical Considerations and Data]. Published data on the use of zolpidem during pregnancy have not reported a clear association with zolpidem and major birth defects [see Data]. Oral administration of zolpidem to pregnant rats and rabbits did not indicate a risk for adverse effects on fetal development at clinically relevant doses [see Data]. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations are unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/neonatal adverse reactions Zolpidem crosses the placenta and may produce respiratory depression and sedation in neonates. Monitor neonates exposed to zolpidem tartrate during pregnancy and labor for signs of excess sedation, hypotonia, and respiratory depression and manage accordingly. Data Human data Published data from observational studies, birth registries, and case reports on the use of zolpidem during pregnancy do not report a clear association with zolpidem and major birth defects. There are limited postmarketing reports of severe to moderate cases of respiratory depression that occurred after birth in neonates whose mothers had taken zolpidem during pregnancy. These cases required artificial ventilation or intratracheal intubation. The majority of neonates recovered within hours to a few weeks after birth once treated. Zolpidem has been shown to cross the placenta. Animal data Oral administration of zolpidem to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis at 4, 20, and 100 mg base/kg/day, which are approximately 5, 25, and 120 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 10 mg/day (8 mg zolpidem base) based on mg/m2 body surface area, caused delayed fetal development (incomplete fetal skeletal ossification) at maternally toxic (ataxia) doses 25 and 120 times the MRHD based on mg/m2 body surface area. Oral administration of zolpidem to pregnant rabbits during the period of organogenesis at 1, 4, and 16 mg base/kg/day, which are approximately 2.5, 10, and 40 times the MRHD of 10 mg/day (8 mg zolpidem base) based on mg/m2 body surface area caused embryo-fetal death and delayed fetal development (incomplete fetal skeletal ossification) at a maternally toxic (decreased body weight gain) dose 40 times the MRHD based on mg/m2 body surface area. Oral administration of zolpidem to pregnant rats from day 15 of gestation through lactation at 4, 20, and 100 mg base/kg/day, which are approximately 5, 25, and 120 times the MRHD of 10 mg/day (8 mg zolpidem base) based on mg/m2 body surface area, delayed offspring growth and decreased survival at doses 25 and 120 times, respectively, the MRHD based on mg/m2 body surface area.
Risk Summary Limited data from published literature report the presence of zolpidem in human milk. There are reports of excess sedation in infants exposed to zolpidem through breastmilk [see Clinical Considerations]. There is no information on the effects of zolpidem on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother s clinical need for zolpidem tartrate and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from zolpidem tartrate or from the underlying maternal condition. Clinical Considerations Infants exposed to zolpidem tartrate through breastmilk should be monitored for excess sedation, hypotonia, and respiratory depression. A lactating woman may consider interrupting breastfeeding and pumping and discarding breast milk during treatment and for 23 hours (approximately 5 elimination half-lives) after zolpidem tartrate administration in order to minimize drug exposure to a breast fed infant.
Zolpidem tartrate is not recommended for use in children. Safety and effectiveness of zolpidem in pediatric patients below the age of 18 years have not been established. In an 8-week study in pediatric patients (aged 6 to 17 years) with insomnia associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) an oral solution of zolpidem tartrate dosed at 0.25 mg/kg at bedtime did not decrease sleep latency compared to placebo. Psychiatric and nervous system disorders comprised the most frequent (> 5%) treatment emergent adverse reactions observed with zolpidem versus placebo and included dizziness (23.5% vs 1.5%), headache (12.5% vs 9.2%), and hallucinations were reported in 7% of the pediatric patients who received zolpidem; none of the pediatric patients who received placebo reported hallucinations [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]. Ten patients on zolpidem (7.4%) discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction.
A total of 154 patients in U.S. controlled clinical trials and 897 patients in non-U.S. clinical trials who received zolpidem were 60 years of age. For a pool of U.S. patients receiving zolpidem at doses of 10 mg or placebo, there were three adverse reactions occurring at an incidence of at least 3% for zolpidem and for which the zolpidem incidence was at least twice the placebo incidence (i.e., they could be considered drug related). Adverse Event Zolpidem Placebo Dizziness 3% 0% Drowsiness 5% 2% Diarrhea 3% 1% A total of 30/1,959 (1.5%) non-U.S. patients receiving zolpidem reported falls, including 28/30 (93%) who were 70 years of age. Of these 28 patients, 23 (82%) were receiving zolpidem doses >10 mg. A total of 24/1,959 (1.2%) non-U.S. patients receiving zolpidem reported confusion, including 18/24 (75%) who were 70 years of age. Of these 18 patients, 14 (78%) were receiving zolpidem doses >10 mg. The dose of zolpidem tartrate in elderly patients is 5 mg to minimize adverse effects related to impaired motor and/or cognitive performance and unusual sensitivity to sedative/hypnotic drugs [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )].
Women clear zolpidem tartrate from the body at a lower rate than men. Cmax and AUC parameters of zolpidem were approximately 45% higher at the same dose in female subjects compared with male subjects. Given the higher blood levels of zolpidem tartrate in women compared to men at a given dose, the recommended initial dose of zolpidem tartrate for adult women is 5 mg, and the recommended dose for adult men is 5 or 10 mg. In geriatric patients, clearance of zolpidem is similar in men and women. The recommended dose of zolpidem tartrate in geriatric patients is 5 mg regardless of gender.
The recommended dose of zolpidem tartrate in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment is 5 mg once daily immediately before bedtime. Avoid zolpidem tartrate use in patients with severe hepatic impairment as it may contribute to encephalopathy [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 ), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Zolpidem tartrate is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by federal regulation.
Abuse and addiction are separate and distinct from physical dependence and tolerance. Abuse is characterized by misuse of the drug for non-medical purposes, often in combination with other psychoactive substances. Tolerance is a state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in a diminution of one or more of the drug effects over time. Tolerance may occur to both desired and undesired effects of drugs and may develop at different rates for different effects. Addiction is a primary, chronic, neurobiological disease with genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. It is characterized by behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use, compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and craving. Drug addiction is a treatable disease, using a multidisciplinary approach, but relapse is common. Studies of abuse potential in former drug abusers found that the effects of single doses of zolpidem tartrate 40 mg were similar, but not identical, to diazepam 20 mg, while zolpidem tartrate 10 mg was difficult to distinguish from placebo. Because persons with a history of addiction to, or abuse of, drugs or alcohol are at increased risk for misuse, abuse and addiction of zolpidem, they should be monitored carefully when receiving zolpidem or any other hypnotic.
Use of zolpidem tartrate may lead to the development of physical and/or psychological dependence. The risk of dependence increases with dose and duration of treatment. The risk of abuse and dependence is also greater in patients with a history of alcohol or drug abuse. Zolpidem tartrate should be used with extreme caution in patients with current or past alcohol or drug abuse Physical dependence is a state of adaptation that is manifested by a specific withdrawal syndrome that can be produced by abrupt cessation, rapid dose reduction, decreasing blood level of the drug, and/or administration of an antagonist. Sedative/hypnotics have produced withdrawal signs and symptoms following abrupt discontinuation. These reported symptoms range from mild dysphoria and insomnia to a withdrawal syndrome that may include abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, tremors, convulsions, and delirium. The following adverse events which are considered to meet the DSM-III-R criteria for uncomplicated sedative/hypnotic withdrawal were reported during clinical trials with zolpidem tartrate following placebo substitution occurring within 48 hours following last zolpidem treatment: fatigue, nausea, flushing, lightheadedness, uncontrolled crying, emesis, stomach cramps, panic attack, nervousness, and abdominal discomfort. These reported adverse events occurred at an incidence of 1% or less. However, available data cannot provide a reliable estimate of the incidence, if any, of dependence during treatment at recommended doses. There have been postmarketing reports of abuse, dependence and withdrawal with zolpidem.
In postmarketing experience of overdose with zolpidem tartrate alone, or in combination with CNS-depressant agents, impairment of consciousness ranging from somnolence to coma, cardiovascular and/or respiratory compromise, and fatal outcomes have been reported.
General symptomatic and supportive measures should be used along with immediate gastric lavage where appropriate. Intravenous fluids should be administered as needed. Zolpidem's sedative hypnotic effect was shown to be reduced by flumazenil and therefore may be useful; however, flumazenil administration may contribute to the appearance of neurological symptoms (convulsions). As in all cases of drug overdose, respiration, pulse, blood pressure, and other appropriate signs should be monitored and general supportive measures employed. Hypotension and CNS depression should be monitored and treated by appropriate medical intervention. Sedating drugs should be withheld following zolpidem overdosage, even if excitation occurs. The value of dialysis in the treatment of overdosage has not been determined, although hemodialysis studies in patients with renal failure receiving therapeutic doses have demonstrated that zolpidem is not dialyzable. As with the management of all overdosage, the possibility of multiple drug ingestion should be considered. The physician may wish to consider contacting a poison control center for up-to-date information on the management of hypnotic drug product overdosage.
Zolpidem tartrate is a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptor positive modulator of the imidazopyridine class. Zolpidem tartrate is available in 5 mg and 10 mg strength tablets for oral administration. Chemically, zolpidem is N,N,6-trimethyl-2-p-tolylimidazo[1,2-a] pyridine-3-acetamide L-(+)-tartrate (2:1). It has the following structure: Zolpidem tartrate is a white to off-white crystalline powder that is sparingly soluble in water, alcohol, and propylene glycol. It has a molecular weight of 764.88. Each zolpidem tartrate tablet contains either 5 mg or 10 mg zolpidem tartrate with the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, povidone, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium dioxide, carnauba wax; the 10-mg tablet also contains ferric oxide yellow.
Zolpidem is a GABA A receptor positive modulator presumed to exert its therapeutic effects in the short-term treatment of insomnia through binding to the benzodiazepine site of 1 subunit containing GABA A receptors, increasing the frequency of chloride channel opening resulting in the inhibition of neuronal excitation.
Zolpidem binds to GABA A receptors with greater affinity for 1 subunit relative to 2 and 3 subunit containing receptors. Zolpidem has no appreciable binding affinity for 5 subunit containing GABA A receptors. This binding profile may explain the relative absence of myorelaxant effects in animal studies. Zolpidem has no appreciable binding affinity for dopaminergic D2, serotonergic 5HT2, adrenergic, histaminergic or muscarinic receptors.
The pharmacokinetic profile of zolpidem tartrate is characterized by rapid absorption from the gastrointestinal tract and a short elimination half-life (T1/2) in healthy subjects. In a single-dose crossover study in 45 healthy subjects administered 5 and 10 mg zolpidem tartrate tablets, the mean peak concentrations (Cmax) were 59 (range: 29 to 113) and 121 (range: 58 to 272) ng/mL, respectively, occurring at a mean time (Tmax) of 1.6 hours for both. The mean zolpidem tartrate elimination half-life was 2.6 (range: 1.4 to 4.5) and 2.5 (range: 1.4 to 3.8) hours, for the 5 and 10 mg tablets, respectively. Zolpidem tartrate is converted to inactive metabolites that are eliminated primarily by renal excretion. Zolpidem tartrate demonstrated linear kinetics in the dose range of 5 to 20 mg. Total protein binding was found to be 92.5 0.1% and remained constant, independent of concentration between 40 and 790 ng/mL. Zolpidem did not accumulate in young adults following nightly dosing with 20 mg zolpidem tartrate tablets for 2 weeks. A food-effect study in 30 healthy male subjects compared the pharmacokinetics of zolpidem tartrate 10 mg when administered while fasting or 20 minutes after a meal. Results demonstrated that with food, mean AUC and Cmax were decreased by 15% and 25%, respectively, while mean Tmax was prolonged by 60% (from 1.4 to 2.2 hr). The half-life remained unchanged. These results suggest that, for faster sleep onset, zolpidem tartrate should not be administered with or immediately after a meal.
Normal adults experiencing transient insomnia (n = 462) during the first night in a sleep laboratory were evaluated in a double-blind, parallel group, single-night trial comparing two doses of zolpidem (7.5 and 10 mg) and placebo. Both zolpidem doses were superior to placebo on objective (polysomnographic) measures of sleep latency, sleep duration, and number of awakenings. Normal elderly adults (mean age 68) experiencing transient insomnia (n = 35) during the first two nights in a sleep laboratory were evaluated in a double-blind, crossover, 2-night trial comparing four doses of zolpidem (5, 10, 15 and 20 mg) and placebo. All zolpidem doses were superior to placebo on the two primary PSG parameters (sleep latency and efficiency) and all four subjective outcome measures (sleep duration, sleep latency, number of awakenings, and sleep quality).
Zolpidem was evaluated in two controlled studies for the treatment of patients with chronic insomnia (most closely resembling primary insomnia, as defined in the APA Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-IV ). Adult outpatients with chronic insomnia (n = 75) were evaluated in a double-blind, parallel group, 5-week trial comparing two doses of zolpidem tartrate and placebo. On objective (polysomnographic) measures of sleep latency and sleep efficiency, zolpidem 10 mg was superior to placebo on sleep latency for the first 4 weeks and on sleep efficiency for weeks 2 and 4. Zolpidem was comparable to placebo on number of awakenings at both doses studied. Adult outpatients (n=141) with chronic insomnia were also evaluated, in a double-blind, parallel group, 4-week trial comparing two doses of zolpidem and placebo. Zolpidem 10 mg was superior to placebo on a subjective measure of sleep latency for all 4 weeks, and on subjective measures of total sleep time, number of awakenings, and sleep quality for the first treatment week. Increased wakefulness during the last third of the night as measured by polysomnography has not been observed in clinical trials with zolpidem tartrate.
Zolpidem tartrate tablets, USP are available as follows: 5 mg, are white, round-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, with ZLP debossed on one side and 5 on the other side. NDC 0781-5317-31, bottle of 30 tablets NDC 0781-5317-01, bottle of 100 tablets NDC 0781-5317-05, bottle of 500 tablets NDC 0781-5317-10, bottle of 1000 tablets 10 mg, are yellow, round-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, with ZLP debossed on one side and 10 on the other side. NDC 0781-5318-31, bottle of 30 tablets NDC 0781-5318-01, bottle of 100 tablets NDC 0781-5318-05, bottle of 500 tablets NDC 0781-5318-10, bottle of 1000 tablets
Store at controlled room temperature 20 to 25 C (68 to 77 F).
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide). Inform patients and their families about the benefits and risks of treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets. Inform patients of the availability of a Medication Guide and instruct them to read the Medication Guide prior to initiating treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets and with each prescription refill. Review the zolpidem tartrate tablets Medication Guide with every patient prior to initiation of treatment. Instruct patients or caregivers that zolpidem tartrate tablets should be taken only as prescribed. Complex Sleep Behaviors Instruct patients and their families that zolpidem tartrate tablets may cause complex sleep behaviors, including sleep-walking, sleep-driving, preparing and eating food, making phone calls, or having sex while not being fully awake. Serious injuries and death have occurred during complex sleep behavior episodes. Tell patients to discontinue zolpidem tartrate tablets and notify their healthcare provider immediately if they develop any of these symptoms [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. CNS-Depressant Effects and Next-Day Impairment Tell patients that zolpidem tartrate tablets have the potential to cause next-day impairment, and that this risk is increased if dosing instructions are not carefully followed. Tell patients to wait for at least 8 hours after dosing before driving or engaging in other activities requiring full mental alertness. Inform patients that impairment can be present despite feeling fully awake. Advise patients that increased drowsiness and decreased consciousness may increase the risk of falls in some patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Severe Anaphylactic and Anaphylactoid Reactions Inform patients that severe anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions have occurred with zolpidem. Describe the signs/symptoms of these reactions and advise patients to seek medical attention immediately if any of them occur [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. Suicide Tell patients to immediately report any suicidal thoughts. Alcohol and Other Drugs Ask patients about alcohol consumption, medicines they are taking, and drugs they may be taking without a prescription. Advise patients not to use zolpidem tartrate tablets if they drank alcohol that evening or before bed. Concomitant Use with Opioids Inform patients and caregivers that potentially serious additive effects may occur if zolpidem tartrate tablets are used with opioids and not to use such drugs concomitantly unless supervised by a healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2, 5.7), Drug Interactions (7.1)]. Tolerance, Abuse, and Dependence Tell patients not to increase the dose of zolpidem tartrate tablets on their own, and to inform you if they believe the drug "does not work". Administration Instructions Patients should be counseled to take zolpidem tartrate tablets right before they get into bed and only when they are able to stay in bed a full night (7 to 8 hours) before being active again. Zolpidem tartrate tablets should not be taken with or immediately after a meal. Advise patients NOT to take zolpidem tartrate tablets if they drank alcohol that evening. Pregnancy Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with zolpidem tartarate tablets. Advise patients that use of zolpidem tartarate tablets late in the third trimester may cause respiratory depression and sedation in neonates. Advise mothers who used zolpidem tartarate during the late third trimester of pregnancy to monitor neonates for signs of sleepiness (more than usual), breathing difficulties, or limpness [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Lactation Advise breastfeeding mothers using zolpidem tartarate tablets to monitor infants for increased sleepiness, breathing difficulties, or limpness. Instruct breastfeeding mothers to seek immediate medical care if they notice these signs. A lactating woman may consider pumping and discarding breastmilk during treatment and for 23 hours after zolpidem tartrate administration to minimize drug exposure to a breastfed infant [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].
Medication Guide Zolpidem Tartrate Tablets, USP C-IV for oral use (ZOL-pih-dem) What is the most important information I should know about zolpidem tartrate tablets? Zolpidem tartrate tablets may cause serious side effects, including: Complex sleep behaviors. After taking zolpidem tartrate tablets, you may get up out of bed while not being fully awake and do an activity that you do not know you are doing. The next morning, you may not remember that you did anything during the night. These activities may happen with zolpidem tartrate tablets whether or not you drink alcohol or take other medicines that make you sleepy. Some of these complex sleep behaviors have caused serious injury and death. People taking zolpidem tartrate tablets have reported: osleep-walking osleep-driving omaking and eating food otalking on the phone ohaving sex Stop taking zolpidem tartrate tablets and tell your healthcare provider right away if you find out that you have done any of the above activities after taking zolpidem tartrate tablets. What are zolpidem tartrate tablets? Zolpidem tartrate tablets are a prescription sleep medicine used for the short-term treatment of adults who have trouble falling asleep (insomnia). It is not known if zolpidem tartrate tablets are safe and effective in children under the age of 18 years. Zolpidem tartrate tablets are not recommended for use in children under the age of 18 years. Zolpidem tartrate tablets is a federally controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep zolpidem tartrate tablets in a safe place to protect it from theft. Never give your zolpidem tartrate tablets to anyone else because it may cause death or harm them. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Do not take zolpidem tartrate tablets if you: Have had complex sleep behaviors that happened after taking zolpidem tartrate tablets in the past. See What is the most important information I should know about zolpidem tartrate tablets? Are allergic to zolpidem or any of the ingredients in zolpidem tartrate tablets. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in zolpidem tartrate tablets. Before taking zolpidem tartrate tablets, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: have a history of depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts or actions have a history of drug or alcohol abuse or addiction have kidney or liver disease have a lung disease or breathing problems have sleep apnea have myasthenia gravis are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Taking zolpidem tartrate tablets in the third trimester of pregnancy may harm your unborn baby. oTell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets. oBabies born to mothers who take zolpidem tartrate tablets during the third trimester of pregnancy may have symptoms of breathing problems and sedation (such as sleepiness or low muscle tone). are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Zolpidem tartrate passes into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets. Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Zolpidem tartrate tablets and other medicines can interact with each other causing serious side effects. Zolpidem tartrate tablets may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how zolpidem tartrate tablets works. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you: take benzodiazepines take opioids as it may increase the risk of breathing problems (respiratory depression) take tricyclic antidepressants take other medicines that can make you sleepy or affect your breathing (including other zolpidem medicines) drink alcohol You can ask your pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with zolpidem tartrate tablets. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. How should I take zolpidem tartrate tablets? Take zolpidem tartrate tablets exactly as prescribed. Do not change your dose on your own. Tell your healthcare provider if you think zolpidem tartrate tablets are not working for you. Zolpidem tartrate tablets is for short-term use only. Treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets should be as short as possible because the risk of dependence increases the longer you are being treated. Take 1 zolpidem tartrate tablet at night right before bedtime. Do not take zolpidem tartrate tablets if you are not able to stay in bed a full night (7 to 8 hours) before you must be active again. You should not take zolpidem tartrate tablets with or right after a meal. Zolpidem tartrate tablets may help you fall asleep faster if you take it on an empty stomach. Do not take zolpidem tartrate tablets if you drank alcohol that evening or before bed. Call your healthcare provider if your sleep problems get worse or do not get better within 7 to 10 days. This may mean that there is another condition causing your sleep problems. If you take too much zolpidem tartrate tablets, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away. What are the possible side effects of zolpidem tartrate tablets? Zolpidem tartrate tablets may cause serious side effects, including: See What is the most important information I should know about zolpidem tartrate tablets? Zolpidem tartrate tablets can make you sleepy or dizzy and can slow your thinking and motor skills. Because zolpidem tartrate tablets can make you sleepy or dizzy you are at a higher risk for falls. oDo not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how zolpidem tartrate tablets affects you. oDo not drink alcohol or take opioids or other medicines that may make you sleepy or dizzy while taking zolpidem tartrate tablets without first talking to your healthcare provider. When taken with alcohol or other medicines that cause sleepiness or dizziness, zolpidem tartrate tablets may make your sleepiness or dizziness much worse. Severe allergic reactions. Symptoms include swelling of the tongue or throat, trouble breathing, and nausea and vomiting. Get emergency medical help right away if you develop any of these symptoms during treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets. Abnormal thoughts and behavior. Symptoms include more outgoing or aggressive behavior than normal, confusion (delirium), acting strangely, agitation, hallucinations, worsening of depression, and suicidal thoughts or actions. Risk of suicide and worsening of depression. Worsening of depression, including suicidal thoughts and actions can happen during treatment with medicines like zolpidem tartrate tablets. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop any thoughts of suicide, dying, or worsening depression during treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets. Breathing problems. See Before taking zolpidem tartrate tablets, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: Call your healthcare provider or get emergency medical help right away if you develop breathing problems during treatment with zolpidem tartrate tablets. Problems with your nervous system caused by severe liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy). Withdrawal symptoms. You may have withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking zolpidem tartrate tablets suddenly. Withdrawal symptoms can be serious and include stomach and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, shakiness, seizures, and confusion (delirium). Talk to your healthcare provider about slowly stopping zolpidem tartrate tablets to avoid withdrawal symptoms. The most common side effects of zolpidem tartrate tablets include sleepiness, dizziness, diarrhea, and grogginess or feeling like you have been drugged. These are not all the side effects of zolpidem tartrate tablets. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. How should I store zolpidem tartrate tablets? Store zolpidem tartrate tablets at room temperature between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Keep zolpidem tartrate tablets and all medicines out of reach of children. General Information about the safe and effective use of zolpidem tartrate tablets. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use zolpidem tartrate tablets for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give zolpidem tartrate tablets to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about zolpidem tartrate tablets that is written for healthcare professionals What are the ingredients in zolpidem tartrate tablets? Active Ingredient: zolpidem tartrate Inactive Ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, povidone, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium dioxide, carnauba wax; the 10-mg tablet also contains ferric oxide yellow. The brands listed are trademarks of their respective owners and are not trademarks of Sandoz Inc. Finished Drug Product Manufactured by Lek Pharmaceuticals d.d. SI-1526 Ljubljana, Slovenia for Sandoz Inc., Princeton, NJ 08540 For more information about zolpidem tartrate tablets, call Sandoz Inc. at 1-800-525-8747. This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Revised: 03/2022
NDC 0781-5318-31 Zolpidem Tartrate Tablets, USP 10 mg Rx only PHARMACIST: Dispense the Medication Guide provided separately to each patient 30 Tablets
