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Sleep Aids And Stimulants (cont.)

What prescription medicines are there for insomnia?

There are numerous prescription medications a doctor may prescribe if you are suffering from short-term or chronic insomnia. Most are not recommended for long-term use.

Medication to treat insomnia includes several classes of drugs;

  • Short-acting sedative-hypnotics (non-benzodiazepines) - these medications slow activity in the brain to allow sleep.
     
  • Melatonin receptor agonists - used to help patients who have difficulty falling asleep and it works similarly to melatonin
     
  • Benzodiazepines (tranquilizers) - this class of medication is used to slow down the central nervous system, causing drowsiness. These medications have a high risk of dependence with chronic usage.
     
    • flurazepam (Dalmane)

    • temazepam (Restoril)

    • estazolam (ProSom)

In February 2007, the Food and Drug Administration issued this warning regarding sedative-hypnotic drugs and their risks, which "...include severe allergic reactions and complex sleep-related behaviors, which may include sleep-driving. Sleep driving is defined as driving while not fully awake after ingestion of a sedative-hypnotic product, with no memory of the event."

If your doctor recommends prescription sleep medications:

  • Follow all prescribing instructions given by your physician.

  • Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or supplements you are taking as many can have adverse interactions with sleep medications.

  • Tell your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions.

  • Note any possible negative side effects (changes in your body, and even your emotions)

  • Do not use the medications nightly - this can lead to dependence

  • Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other non-prescription drugs while using sleep medication

  • Never drive a car or operate machinery after taking a sleeping pill.


Next: What stimulant products are available OTC? »

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