STILNOX 10MG TABS 14S

Stilnox (zolpidem tartrate 10 mg) is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic agent belonging to the imidazopyridine class of compounds. It exerts its pharmacological effects by selectively binding to the benzodiazepine binding site on gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA-A) receptors, particularly those containing the alpha-1 subunit, which are associated with sedation and induction of sleep.

This selective binding profile distinguishes Stilnox (zolpidem tartrate 10 mg)  from classical benzodiazepines and underlies its predominantly hypnotic rather than anxiolytic or muscle-relaxant activity.

Zolpidem is indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia in adults where the condition is severe, disabling, or causing significant distress. It is effective in reducing sleep-onset latency (the time taken to fall asleep) and in increasing total sleep duration. It is particularly useful in sleep-initiation insomnia.

Stilnox (zolpidem tartrate 10 mg) drug is not intended for long-term use; the prescribing course should be as short as possible and typically does not exceed 2–4 weeks including a tapering phase.

Stilnox 10 mg should be taken orally, immediately before bedtime. Patients must ensure they can dedicate 7–8 hours to sleep following the dose.

Standard Adult Dose

•     Adults (18–64 years): 10 mg orally once daily, taken immediately before bedtime.

•     Elderly patients (≥65 years): 5 mg once daily; the 10 mg dose is generally not recommended due to increased risk of sedation, falls, and cognitive impairment.

•     Women: Due to slower clearance of zolpidem in women, the starting dose of 5 mg should be considered; the 10 mg dose may be used if the lower dose is insufficient.

•     Do not take with or immediately after a meal; food delays absorption and reduces peak plasma concentration.

Duration of Treatment

•     Insomnia treatment should be as short as possible: typically 2–4 weeks, including gradual taper.

•     If symptoms do not improve within 7–14 days, reassess the underlying cause of insomnia.

•     Do not abruptly discontinue after prolonged use; taper gradually to avoid rebound insomnia and withdrawal.

Special Populations

•     Hepatic impairment: Use 5 mg with caution; 10 mg is contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment.

•     Renal impairment: No dose adjustment required, but monitor for accumulation.

•     Children and adolescents: Not recommended under 18 years of age.

Side effects vary in frequency and severity. Not every patient will experience all listed effects. Seek immediate medical attention for any serious or unexpected reactions.

•     Next-morning impairment: Even at recommended doses, zolpidem can impair driving ability and other tasks requiring alertness the morning after use. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until they know the drug is fully eliminated.

•     Complex sleep behaviours (CSBs): Rare but serious, patients may engage in activities while not fully awake (driving, eating, making calls) with no memory. Discontinue immediately if CSBs occur.

•     Dependence and tolerance: Physical dependence can develop even at therapeutic doses within a few weeks. Abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use may cause withdrawal symptoms including rebound insomnia, anxiety, tremor, and in severe cases, seizures.

•     CNS depression: Additive effects with alcohol, opioids, and other CNS depressants, potentially life-threatening combination.

The following interactions are clinically significant. Always inform your healthcare provider of ALL medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

•     Alcohol: Additive CNS depression; avoid concurrent use.

•     Opioids and other CNS depressants: Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death are possible with concomitant use.

Store below 25°C. Keep in original packaging to protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.

Q1: How quickly does Stilnox work?

A: Zolpidem is rapidly absorbed; most patients fall asleep within 15–30 minutes of taking the tablet. It should be taken immediately before getting into bed.

Q2: Can I use Stilnox every night for months?

A: No. Stilnox is approved for short-term use only, typically 2 to 4 weeks. Prolonged use can lead to tolerance and dependence, making it harder to sleep without the drug.

Q3: Why am I still drowsy the morning after taking Stilnox?

A: Residual drowsiness is a recognised side effect, particularly with the 10 mg dose. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel unsteady or sedated the next morning.

Q4: What are complex sleep behaviours with zolpidem?

A: Some patients sleep-walk, sleep-drive, or prepare and eat food while asleep, with no memory of doing so. These rare but serious events require immediate discontinuation of the medicine.

Q5: Is Stilnox safe to use if I have anxiety?

A: Zolpidem is a hypnotic, not an anxiolytic. While it may induce sleep, it does not treat anxiety. If anxiety is contributing to insomnia, discuss this with your doctor as a different treatment may be more appropriate.