STILNOX is used to initiate and maintain sleep in those with sleeping difficulties, also called insomnia in patients over 18 years of age. It is not recommended for use for more than 4 weeks at a time.
STILNOX has a different chemical structure to other sleeping tablets. STILNOX works by binding to special sites in the brain which produce sleep.
Your doctor, however, may prescribe STILNOX for another purpose.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about why it has been prescribed for you.
This medicine is only available with a doctor’s prescription.
When you must not take it
Do not take STILNOX if you have:
- been drinking alcohol or you believe that you may have alcohol in your bloodstream
- sleep apnoea (a condition where you temporarily stop breathing while you sleep)
- myasthenia gravis (a condition in which the muscles become weak and tire easily)
- severe liver problems
- acute and/or severe lung problems
- previously experienced complex sleep behaviours after taking this medicine including sleepwalking, sleep-driving, and/or engaging in other activities while not fully awake.
Do not take STILNOX if you are allergic to it or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.
Some symptoms of an allergic reaction include skin rash, itching, shortness of breath or swelling of the face, lips or tongue, which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing.
Do not give STILNOX to a child or adolescent. There is no experience with its use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have ever had a mental disorder or have abused or have been dependent on alcohol or drugs.
Do not take it after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack. If you take it after the expiry date has passed, it may not work as well.
Do not take it if the packaging is damaged or shows signs of tampering.
How should I use & buy Stilnox?
Take Stilnox exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Take Stilnox just before you go to bed. It will make you drowsy, and you could fall and hurt yourself if you take your dose before you are ready for sleep.
Take Stilnox only if you are able to get a full nights sleep before you must be active again.
Do not take more of this medication than is prescribed for you.
Do not stop taking Stilnox suddenly if you have been taking it for more than 1 or 2 weeks. This may cause withdrawal symptoms and make you uncomfortable. Talk to your doctor if you need to stop treatment with Stilnox.
Store Stilnox at room temperature away from moisture and heat.