<p>The dose of Zaleplon should be individualized. The recommended dose of Zaleplon for most non elderly adults is 10 mg. For certain low weight individuals, 5 mg may be a sufficient dose. Although the risk of certain adverse events associated with the use of Zaleplon appears to be dose dependent, the 20 mg dose has been shown to be adequately tolerated and may be considered for occasional patient who does not benefit from a trial of lower dose. Dosage above 20 mg has not been adequately evaluated and is not recommended.<br />
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Zaleplon should be taken immediately before bedtime. Taking Zaleplon with or immediately after a heavy, high fat meal results in slower absorption and would be expected to reduce the effect of Zaleplon on sleep latency. Elderly patients and debilitated patients appear to be more sensitive to the effects of hypnotic, and respond to 5 mg of Zaleplon. The recommended dose for these patients is therefore 5 mg, doses over 10 mg are not recommended.<br />
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For patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, no dose adjustment is necessary.<br />
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An initial dose of 5 mg should be given to patients concomitantly taking Cimetidine because Zaleplon clearance is reduced in this population.<br />
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<strong>Pediatric use</strong>: The safety and effectiveness of Zaleplon in pediatric patients have not been established.</p>