From the FDA Drug Label
The recommended initial dose is 5 mg for women and either 5 or 10 mg for men, taken only once per night immediately before bedtime with at least 7 to 8 hours remaining before the planned time of awakening. The FDA drug label does not answer the question about the recommended dose of Zolpidem for sleep onset during a flight, as it only provides information on the recommended dose for typical bedtime use.
From the Research
Zolpidem is typically prescribed at 5-10 mg for adults to help with sleep onset during flights, with the most recent and highest quality study 1 suggesting that the dose should be adjusted based on individual tolerance and medical history. For first-time users, starting with the lower 5 mg dose is recommended to assess tolerance. Take the medication when you're ready to sleep on the flight, with at least 7-8 hours available before you need to be alert again. Zolpidem works quickly, usually within 15-30 minutes, by enhancing the effect of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, helping you fall asleep faster. Important considerations include:
- Avoiding alcohol while using zolpidem, as this can cause dangerous respiratory depression, and not taking it until you're seated on the plane and ready to sleep.
- Some people experience side effects like dizziness, headache, or rarely, complex sleep behaviors.
- If you've never taken zolpidem before, it's advisable to try it at home first to see how you respond.
- Always consult with your healthcare provider before using sleep medication, especially if you have respiratory conditions, sleep apnea, liver problems, or are taking other medications. The most recent study 1 highlights the importance of considering individual factors, such as age and medical history, when prescribing zolpidem, and the need for careful monitoring of potential side effects. In terms of specific dosing, the study 2 suggests that zolpidem-IR reduces sleep latency at recommended doses of 5mg and 10mg in elderly and non-elderly patients, respectively. However, the study 1 emphasizes the need for a case-by-case approach, considering both the physical and psychiatric risks posed to the patient with insomnia versus if the patient were to take zolpidem to treat their condition. Overall, the recommended dose of zolpidem for sleep onset during a flight is 5-10 mg, with careful consideration of individual factors and potential side effects, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.