Medications for Insomnia

Common names are:

• Flurazepam
• Triazolam
• Estazolam
• Temazepam

Hypnotics are also called sedatives. Sedatives are drugs that cause relaxation. They also help induce and maintain sleep. These drugs are usually for short-term use. Long-term use needs to be monitored. These drugs can lead to dependency and abuse.

Some problems may be:

• Allergic reaction (swelling of the face or mouth, difficulty breathing, rash)
• Loss of memory— amnesia, or changes in thinking or behavior
• Suicidal thoughts
• Changes in eyesight
• Tiredness, sleepiness, lightheadedness, or clumsiness
• Depression
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea , or constipation

Common names are:

• Zaleplon
• Zolpidem
• Eszopiclone

These medicines are most useful for helping someone fall sleep.

Some problems may be:

• Allergic reaction (swelling of the face or mouth, problems breathing, rash)
• Sleepiness, lightheadedness, or clumsiness
• Strange perceptions or behavior, or severe confusion
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Problems with memory
• Worsening depression

Common name: Ramelteon

Ramelteon helps a person fall sleep. This medicine does not appear to lead to dependence or abuse. It can be used as long-term therapy for insomnia.

Some problems may be:

• Allergic reaction (swelling of the face or mouth, difficulty breathing, rash)
• Sleepiness or tiredness
• Lightheadedness or clumsiness
• Headache
• Behavioral changes, including worsening of depression
• Memory problems and irritation

Common names include:

• Amitriptyline
• Doxepin
• Trimipramine
• Nefazodone
• Trazodone
• Mirtazapine

Sedating antidepressants are often given in low doses. They may be helpful if a person has depression or if other treatments have not worked.

Some problems may be:

• Allergic reaction (swelling of the face or mouth, problems breathing, rash)
• Seizures
• Fast or uneven heart beats
• Heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Painful or unwanted erections (trazadone)
• Dry mouth and eyes
• Mild shaking
• Problems passing urine (pee)
• Fever, with muscle stiffness or weakness
• Sleepiness, lightheadedness, or clumsiness
• Nausea or constipation

Common medicines are:

• Diphenhydramine
• Doxylamine

Antihistamines block an allergic reaction in the body. They are also sometimes used to cause sleep.

Some problems may be:

• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness, tiredness, or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Problems passing urine (pee)
• Constipation
• Blurred vision
• Confusion