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.
- zolpidem [Ambien, ZolpiMist (approved by the FDA in 2008, this is an oral spray which contains the same active ingredient as Ambien)]
- zaleplon (Sonata)
- eszopiclone (Lunesta)
- 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.
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