Somnote is a hypnotic and a sedative medication that slows the activity of your central nervous system. Somnote has both fast-acting and long-lasting sedative effects.

Somnote is for short-term use as a sedative or sleep medicine. It is sometimes given before a surgery to help you relax.

Somnote may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Most important: Before taking Somnote, tell your doctor if you are using a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin). If you are using a blood thinner, you may not be able to take Somnote, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

Somnote should be given only for a short time, such as 2 to 7 days in a row.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects: uneven heartbeats, shallow breathing, feeling light-headed, fainting, weakness, lack of coordination, or a red, blistering, peeling skin rash.

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of chloral hydrate.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by Somnote.

Somnote can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. This medication may be habit-forming. You may have severe or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms when you stop using Somnote after using it for 2 weeks or longer. Do not stop using this medication suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to gradually reduce the dose.