Ramelteon

Brand names: Rozerem

Why is Ramelteon prescribed?

Rozerem is prescribed for treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty in falling asleep. (Other types of insomnia include awakening in the middle of the night or awakening too early in the morning.) Rozerem acts by activating some of the same pathways in the brain that are activated by melatonin, a chemical produced in the body that is believed to be involved in maintaining the daily sleep-wake cycle.

Most important fact about Ramelteon

Sleep disturbance may be a symptom of a physical or psychiatric illness. Therefore, your doctor will need to evaluate your overall health before prescribing Rozerem.

How should you take Ramelteon?

Rozerem is taken about 30 minutes before going to bed. After taking Rozerem, you should only engage in activities related to preparing for bed. Avoid any potentially hazardous activities, such as operating heavy machinery or driving a motor vehicle, after taking Rozerem. Rozerem should not be taken with or immediately after a high fat meal.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Rozerem.

• Side effects may include:Dizziness, tiredness

Why should Ramelteon not be prescribed?

Do not take Rozerem if you have had an allergic reaction to any of its ingredients. You should not take Rozerem if you have severe liver damage or if you are taking the psychiatric drug fluvoxamine.

Special warnings about Ramelteon

If your insomnia does not improve after a reasonable treatment period, or if your insomnia worsens, notify your doctor. Your doctor may evaluate you further to determine if there are any physical or psychiatric causes for your insomnia.

Rozerem may cause cognitive or behavioral problems or worsening of insomnia. In depressed patients, sleep medications have been known to cause a worsening of depression, including suicidal thoughts.

You should not operate heavy machinery or drive a motor vehicle after taking Rozerem.

Alcohol consumption is not recommended in combination with Rozerem.

Rozerem is not recommended for patients with sleep apnea or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Rozerem is not recommended for children under the age of 18.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Ramelteon

Do not take Rozerem with or immediately after a high fat meal. Do not consume alcohol while using Rozerem. Do not take Rozerem if you are taking the psychiatric drug fluvoxamine, used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder.

If Rozerem is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either medication could be increased, decreased, or altered. Notify your doctor of all other over-the counter, prescription, and herbal medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Rozerem with fluconazole, ketoconazole, or rifampin.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Rozerem during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Rozerem is not recommended for nursing mothers.

Recommended dosage for Ramelteon

You should take one 8-milligram tablet 30 minutes before going to bed.

Overdosage

An medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency treatment immediately.