Sleep Disorders Health Center
Understanding Insomnia -- Treatment
What Is the Treatment for Insomnia?
Transient insomnia and short-term insomnia, which may occur during travel, usually disappears when you return to a regular sleep pattern. They may also be caused by a disruption or family illness or by job stress, which can treated with natural sleep aids or, in some cases, with medication. Chronic insomnia, which disrupts sleep for extended periods of time, may call for a thorough physical exam, alteration of some lifestyle habits, medical treatment and, perhaps, psychotherapy to identify a hidden cause.
For circadian rhythm disorders, most people will readjust after a few days on a new schedule. If you have to sleep during the day, keep the bedroom as quiet and dark as possible. If insomnia is due to a physical condition such as diabetes or menopause, treating that underlying condition can help correct the insomnia.
Daylight Saving Time: 8 Tips to Prepare
Daylight saving time will push your clock ahead from 2 a.m. to 3 a.m. on March 13, 2011. And you won't "fall back" until Nov. 6. Dread the thought of getting even less sleep than you do now? Don't burrow under the covers. A little prep work in the days leading up to daylight saving time might make the transition easier. Here are eight tips from sleep medicine doctors on getting ready for daylight saving time: Give yourself (and your kids) a jump start. Move up your bedtime and wake time,...
Read the Daylight Saving Time: 8 Tips to Prepare article > >
Persistent, chronic insomnia is something you should discuss with your doctor to rule out an underlying problem and possibly try an appropriate medication. It is most important to treat any underlying problem that is producing insomnia symptoms. Just treating insomnia symptoms without dealing with the main cause will not be helpful.
If you have ongoing problems such as depression, anxiety, or stress, your doctor may suggest seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Talk to your doctor about any drugs or medications that may be contributing to insomnia symptoms.
Besides addressing any underlying conditions or medication side effects, treatment also includes nonmedical therapy (such as better sleep habits) and medications.
Sleep Medications
Benzodiazepine sedatives such as Halcion, Restoril, ProSom, Dalmane, and Ativan and non-benzodiazepine sedatives such as Ambien, Lunesta, and Sonata are drugs that can help induce sleep, but may be addictive with extended use. They can be dangerous if you take them with alcohol or other drugs that depress the central nervous system. They can cause morning sleepiness, although side effects are generally less severe with the non-benzodiazepines. In December 2008, the FDA approved a prescription oral spray called Zolpimist, which contains Ambien's active ingredient, for the short-term treatment of insomnia.
In 2010, Silenor was approved for use in people who have trouble staying asleep. Silenor may help with sleep maintenance by blocking histamine receptors. Do not take this drug unless you are able to get a full seven or eight hours of sleep. Dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to therapy.
Antidepressant drugs may be used in people with depression to also help with sleep. They are not approved for the treatment of insomnia. These may cause daytime sleepiness or other side effects.
Rozerem is an insomnia medication that works differently than the other sedative medications. It is less likely to cause morning sleepiness or be addictive.
Over-the-counter sleep drugs usually contain an antihistamine. Antihistamines are often used for allergies, but have a side effect of drowsiness. These medications may cause daytime sleepiness and dry mouth among other side effects.
WebMD Medical Reference
