The most commonly used medications for sleep are: 2,5,10
- Benzodiazepines (such as lorazepam, temazepam, oxazepam):
- Are usually used for a short period of time.
- They can help shorten the time it takes to fall asleep, and they extend the length of time you are asleep
- Side effects include drowsiness and grogginess during the day, confusion, and disorientation.
- Zolpidem and Zopiclone work like Benzodiazepines and are just as effective, but don’t have as many side effects.
- Antidepressants:
- Even though they are called antidepressants, they cause drowsiness and can be used for insomnia. The lowered doses function as a sedative, and not as an antidepressant for depression.
- Depending on the antidepressant taken, the side effects may include drowsiness and grogginess during the day, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, or trouble urinating.
- Examples include Amitriptyline and Trazodone.
Don’t Forget
Keep your pharmacist and doctor up-to-date on what is working and what is not working to help with your insomnia.