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Overdosage
An overdose of drugs such as Sonata can be fatal. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of Sonata overdose may include:
Drowsiness, mental confusion,
grogginess, lack of coordination, flaccid muscles, labored breathing, coma
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Before Taking This Medicine
ChildrenˇXStudies on this medicine have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of Sonata in children younger than 18 years with adults.
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How to Use
Sonata comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day at bedtime or after going to bed if you cannot fall asleep. This medication is usually taken for 7-10 days. Follow the direct
ions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Sonata exactly as directed. Do not take Sonata unless you will be able to s
leep for at least 4 hours after taking the dose.
Sonata can be habit-forming; do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer period than your doctor tells you to. Do n
ot stop taking Sonata without talking to your doctor.
Sonata can lose its effectiveness if used for long periods of time.
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What special precautions should I follow?
This medicine may cause some people, especially older persons, to become drowsy, dizzy, lightheaded, clumsy or unsteady, or less alert than they are normally. Even though Sonata is taken at bedtime, i
t may cause some people to feel drowsy or less alert on arising. Make sure you know how you react to Sonata before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy
, unsteady, or are not alert or able to see well.
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Side Effects
Although side effects from Sonata are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- lack of coordination
- headache
- constipation
- dry mouth
- muscle aches
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- skin rash
- itching
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- chest pain
- difficulty breathing
- fever
- behavior changes or acting differently
- mental confusion
- a
bnormal thinking or dreams
- hallucinations
- depression
- worsening of insomnia
- problems with memory
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Why is this drug prescribed?
Sonata is prescribed for people who have trouble falling asleep at bedtime. Because it has a short duration of action, it doesn't help those who suffer from frequent awakenings during the night or tho
se who wake too early in the morning. It is intended only for short-term use (7 to 10 days).
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