| Generic name |
Zolpidem tartrate |
| Brand name in Israel |
Zodorm (sometimes seen as “Zodorm 10 mg” or “Zodorm 5 mg” tablets) |
| Manufacturer |
The Israeli brand is supplied by MDR Pharma Ltd. (other generic versions may be produced by local contract manufacturers). |
| Drug class |
Non‑benzodiazepine hypnotic (“Z-drug”) – acts on GABA‑A receptors but with a different binding site than benzodiazepines. |
| Indication |
Short‑term treatment (≤ 4 weeks) of primary insomnia that is characterized by difficulty falling asleep. |
| Typical adult dose |
• 10 mg one tablet taken orally immediately before bedtime.
• For patients 65 years or older, or those with hepatic impairment, the starting dose is usually 5 mg. |
| Maximum daily dose |
10 mg (or 5 mg for elderly/compromised patients). |
| Formulations |
5 mg or 10 mg immediate‑release tablets; no approved extended‑release (XR) version in Israel. |
| Onset / Duration |
Onset: 30 – 60 min. Duration: 4 – 6 h – enough to cover a typical night’s sleep. |
| Half‑life |
~2–3 h (short). |
| Special considerations |
• Not for chronic insomnia beyond 4 weeks due to risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.
• Avoid alcohol or other CNS depressants (opioids, benzodiazepines, antihistamines).
• No driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness for at least 12 h after taking the medication.
• Pregnancy / lactation – category C; use only if clearly needed and under a physician’s supervision.
• Hepatic or renal impairment – start at the lower dose. |
| Common side‑effects |
Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, dry mouth, mild memory impairment, vivid dreams, or “sleep‑walking” type behaviors. Rarely, complex behaviors (sleep‑driving, sleep‑eating) can occur. |
| Contra‑indications |
Hypersensitivity to zolpidem or any component; severe sleep‑walking disorders; severe hepatic disease. |
| Drug interactions |
• Alcohol – potentiates CNS depression.
• Opioids – additive sedation.
• Benzodiazepines – increased risk of respiratory depression.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin) – increase plasma levels; dose adjustment may be necessary. |
| Withdrawal |
Abrupt cessation after prolonged use can lead to rebound insomnia, anxiety, and irritability. If discontinuation is needed, taper over 2–4 weeks under medical supervision. |
| Legal status in Israel |
Prescription‑only (Category B). Must be obtained from a licensed physician – usually a general practitioner or a sleep‑medicine specialist. |
| How to obtain |
1. Consult a doctor – discuss symptoms, medical history, and other medications.
2. Prescription – the doctor writes a prescription for Zodorm 10 mg or 5 mg.
3. Dispense – take the prescription to a licensed pharmacy. The drug is listed on Israel’s National Pharmaceutical List, so most community pharmacies carry it. |
| Cost & insurance |
Covered by the Israeli National Health Insurance (Kupayis) as a generic medication. The co‑pay varies with your health plan; most patients pay a modest deductible (typically 20–40 NIS). |
| Patient support |
Some pharmacies offer “pill‑box” reminders or counseling on safe sleep practices. The Israeli Ministry of Health (MoH) publishes patient leaflets in Hebrew and Arabic. |
| Alternatives |
Other hypnotics: Eszopiclone (Lunesta), Temazepam, or Melatonin supplements. Non‑pharmacologic approaches (sleep hygiene, CBT‑I) are strongly encouraged for long‑term management. |