Sedatives & Hypnotics
Zaleplon (Sonata)
Street names: Sonata, Starnoc
Overdose? Act now. Call emergency services — say "unresponsive, not breathing". Give naloxone for opioid-like signs. Hotlines
⚡What it does
- Ultra-short hypnotic — sleep within 15 min, ~4 h duration
- Less hangover than zolpidem for some
⚠Key risks
- Same Z-drug dependence class
- Sleep-driving/walking documented
- Middle-of-the-night redosing = accumulation crashes
- Counterfeits in grey market
✚Overdose signs
- Deep sedation
- Hallucinations
- Respiratory depression with other depressants
📋Quick facts
Also known asSonata, Starnoc
CategorySedatives & Hypnotics
Schedule / classSchedule IV (US)
Appearance5–20 mg capsules, green/white
Street price~$1–$4 per capsule diverted
Legal statusRx-only, Schedule IV
Last updated2026-09-18
Sources: FDA, NIDA
Category comparison — Sedatives & Hypnotics
| Substance | Class | Top risks | Street price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zaleplon (Sonata) | Schedule IV | Same Z-drug dependence class; Sleep-driving/walking documented | ~$1–$4 per capsule diverted |
| Zolpidem (Ambien/Stilnox) | Schedule IV | Sleep-walking, sleep-driving, hallucinations; Dependence and rebound insomnia | ~$2–$10 per 10 mg tablet |
| Eszopiclone (Lunesta) | Schedule IV | Dependence, rebound insomnia; Next-day driving impairment (FDA lowest-dose warning) | ~$2–$8 per 3 mg tablet |
| Zopiclone (Imovane) | Rx-only; Class C | Dependence and brutal rebound insomnia; Metallic taste, dry mouth | ~$1–$5 per 7.5 mg tablet |
Street prices are regional estimates. Potency and cuts vary constantly.
?Frequently asked questions
What does Zaleplon (Sonata) look like?
5–20 mg capsules, green/white
What are the signs of a Zaleplon (Sonata) overdose?
Deep sedation; Hallucinations; Respiratory depression with other depressants Call emergency services immediately.
How addictive is it?
Same Z-drug dependence class Dependence can develop with regular use.