WARNING

Intermezzo is a medication that contains the active ingredient zolpidem, which is commonly used to treat insomnia. While Intermezzo can be effective in helping individuals fall back asleep after waking up in the middle of the night, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use. Here are some brief points about the risks of taking Intermezzo:

• Side Effects: Like any medication, Intermezzo can cause side effects. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and diarrhea. These side effects are usually mild, but if they persist or become severe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
• Next-day Impairment: One significant risk of taking Intermezzo is the potential for next-day impairment. The medication may still be active in the body, leading to drowsiness, reduced alertness, and slower reaction times. This can significantly affect an individual’s ability to perform tasks that require mental focus, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Dependency and Withdrawal: Prolonged use or high doses of Intermezzo can lead to dependency or addiction. Suddenly stopping the medication after regular use may cause withdrawal symptoms, including rebound insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and even seizures in severe cases. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare professional when discontinuing Intermezzo.
• Drug Interactions: Intermezzo can interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements. These interactions may alter the effectiveness of Intermezzo or increase the risk of side effects. It is vital to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to prevent potential interactions.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to Intermezzo. Signs of an allergic reaction may include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If any allergic reactions occur, immediate medical attention should be sought.

It is important to note that this is a brief overview, and it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional or read the medication’s package insert for comprehensive information about the risks and benefits of taking Intermezzo. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on an individual’s specific circumstances and medical history.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Intermezzo is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient zolpidem tartrate. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling back asleep after waking up in the middle of the night.

How should this medicine be used?

Intermezzo is specifically designed for short-term use when a person wakes up in the middle of the night and has at least four hours of sleep time remaining before the planned awakening time. It is not intended for use in situations where a person has difficulty initially falling asleep.

Here are some guidelines on how to use Intermezzo:

• Take Intermezzo only when you wake up in the middle of the night and have difficulty falling back asleep.
• Take Intermezzo sublingually (under the tongue) without water.
• The recommended starting dose for women is 1.75 mg, and for men, it is 3.5 mg.
• Place the tablet under your tongue and let it dissolve completely. Do not swallow or chew the tablet.
• If you do not fall asleep within 45 minutes of taking Intermezzo, it is recommended not to take another dose.
• Intermezzo should be taken only once per night and not more than three times per week.
• Do not take Intermezzo if you have less than four hours of sleep time remaining before the planned awakening time.
• Intermezzo should be taken immediately before returning to bed and only if you can stay in bed for at least four more hours.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and dosing recommendations for Intermezzo. If you have any questions or concerns about its use, it’s best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Intermezzo is primarily prescribed for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling back asleep after waking up in the middle of the night. It is not typically used for other purposes. Its formulation and dosing are specifically designed for this specific indication.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions with Intermezzo, here are some important considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to zolpidem or any other ingredients in Intermezzo. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Medical conditions: Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have a history of kidney, liver, or lung problems, sleep apnea, mental/mood disorders (such as depression, suicidal thoughts), drug or alcohol abuse, or any other conditions that may affect your ability to safely take Intermezzo.
• Medications and interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as certain drugs may interact with Intermezzo. This includes other sleep aids, sedatives, tranquilizers, antidepressants, antipsychotics, muscle relaxants, and medications that affect the central nervous system.
• Respiratory depression: Intermezzo may cause respiratory depression, particularly when taken in higher-than-recommended doses or combined with other medications that suppress the central nervous system. This risk is higher in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Breathing difficulties or unusual changes in breathing should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.
• Next-day impairment: Intermezzo can impair your thinking, alertness, and motor skills, even after a full night’s sleep. Avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you are fully awake and clear-headed.
• Dependence and withdrawal: Like other sedative-hypnotic drugs, Intermezzo may be habit-forming. Prolonged use or abrupt discontinuation may lead to withdrawal symptoms, including rebound insomnia, agitation, irritability, and anxiety. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the duration of treatment and discontinuation.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Intermezzo is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may harm the unborn baby or pass into breast milk.

These are general precautions, and it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance based on your specific situation. They can provide you with the most accurate information and help determine if Intermezzo is appropriate for you.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

It is designed to help you fall back asleep if you wake up in the middle of the night and have difficulty returning to sleep. When taking Intermezzo, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or as indicated on the prescription label. Therefore, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Intermezzo, it’s generally recommended not to take it unless you still have enough time to dedicate to sleep (at least 4 hours) before you need to wake up. Taking Intermezzo and not having enough time for sleep may increase the risk of experiencing next-day impairment, such as drowsiness and difficulty performing activities that require alertness. If you’re unsure about what to do when you miss a dose, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider for specific advice based on your individual circumstances.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Like any medication, Intermezzo can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Intermezzo may include:

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety
• Sleepiness during the day
• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Confusion or disorientation
• Impaired coordination
• Altered taste perception

It’s important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, Intermezzo can cause more severe adverse effects in certain cases. These may include:

• Sleep-related behaviors: Some individuals may engage in activities such as driving, eating, or making phone calls while not fully awake after taking Intermezzo. These actions may have no memory associated with them.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to Intermezzo can occur and may manifest as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive understanding of potential side effects, as individual experiences can vary. Always read and follow the medication’s instructions and inform your doctor about any concerning symptoms that may arise.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

• Storage: Intermezzo should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: If you have any unused or expired Intermezzo tablets, it is important to dispose of them properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash. Instead, check with your local pharmacy or healthcare facility to inquire about medication take-back programs or other safe disposal methods. These programs ensure that medications are disposed of in an environmentally friendly and secure manner.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose with Intermezzo, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Call your local emergency services or poison control center right away. Be prepared to provide them with information such as the amount of medication ingested, the time of ingestion, and any symptoms or reactions observed.

What other information should I know?

• Proper usage: Intermezzo is specifically designed for short-term use to help with middle-of-the-night awakenings. It should only be taken if you have at least 4 hours of sleep time remaining. Do not take Intermezzo if you have consumed alcohol or used any other sedative medication.
• Side effects: Like any medication, Intermezzo can cause side effects. These may include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and next-day impairment. It’s essential to be aware of these potential effects and to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Drug interactions: Intermezzo may interact with other medications, including other sleep aids, sedatives, tranquilizers, and certain antidepressants. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Allergies and medical conditions: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to zolpidem or any other sleep aids. Additionally, discuss any existing medical conditions you have, such as liver or kidney problems, respiratory disorders, or a history of substance abuse.

It’s important to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding the storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and any other concerns related to Intermezzo. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances.