Drug Uses
Stilnox is used for short-term treatment of insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or early awakening). A relatively new drug, Stilnox is chemically different from other common sleep medications such as Halcion and Dalmane.
How To Use
Stilnox works very quickly. Take it just before going to bed. Take only the prescribed dose, exactly as instructed by your doctor. Sleep problems are usually temporary and require medication for a week or two at most. Insomnia that lasts longer could be a sign of another medical problem. If you find that you need this medicine for more than 7 to 10 days, be sure to check with your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor immediately. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe to continue taking Stilnox. More common side effects when taking Stilnox may include:
Allergy, daytime drowsiness, dizziness, drugged feeling, headache, indigestion, nausea.
Precautions
When sleep medications are used every night for more than a few weeks, some may lose their effectiveness. Remember, too, that you can become dependent on some sleep medications if you use them for a long time or at high doses. Some people using Stilnox especially those taking serotonin-boosting antidepressants have experienced unusual changes in their thinking and/or behavior. Alert your doctor if you notice a change. Ambien and other sleep medicines can cause a special type of memory loss. It should not be taken on an overnight airplane flight of less than 7 to 8 hours, since 'traveler's amnesia' may occur. When you first start taking Stilnox, until you know whether the medication will have any 'carry over' effect the next day, use extreme care while doing anything that requires complete alertness, such as driving a car or operating machinery. Older adults, in particular, should be aware that they may be more apt to fall. Use Stilnox cautiously if you have liver problems. It will take longer for its effects to wear off. If you take Stilnox for more than 1 or 2 weeks, consult your doctor before stopping. Sudden discontinuation of a sleep medicine can bring on withdrawal symptoms ranging from unpleasant feelings to vomiting and cramps. When taking Stilnox, do not drink alcohol. It can increase the drug's side effects. If you have breathing problems, they may become worse when you use Stilnox.
Overdose
People who take too much Stilnox may become excessively sleepy or even go into a light coma. The symptoms of overdose are more severe if the person is also taking other drugs that depress the central nervous system. Some cases of multiple overdose have been fatal. If you suspect an overdose of Stilnox, seek medical attention immediately.
Missed dose
Take Stilnox only as needed. Never double the dose.
Storage
Store at room temperature. Protect from extreme heat.
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