Zaleplon and alcohol

Taking zaleplon with a high-fat or heavy meal may delay the onset of sleep. For faster sleep onset, zaleplon should not be administered with or immediately after a high-fat or heavy meal. This will make it easier for your body to absorb the medication. You should avoid the use of alcohol while being treated with zaleplon. Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of zaleplon such as dizziness and drowsiness. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of zaleplon. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Administration of zaleplon with a high-fat or heavy meal may delay the onset of hypnotic effects. In healthy adult subjects, administration of zaleplon with a high-fat meal resulted in a 2-hour delay in the time to reach peak plasma drug concentration (Tmax) and a 35% reduction in the peak plasma drug concentration (Cmax) compared to fasting. Zaleplon systemic exposure (AUC) and elimination half-life were not significantly affected.

MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving zaleplon should be advised to avoid the consumption of alcohol. For faster sleep onset, zaleplon should not be administered with or immediately after a high-fat or heavy meal.