Insomnia Treatment

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Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, dimenhydrinate, or even hydroxyzine, can be helpful. These drugs are intended to treat the symptoms of an allergic reaction, but one of their well-known side effects is drowsiness, which can be useful at times. These tend to be the least bothersome of the drugs recommended for sleeplessness. Possible side effects include tremor and dry mouth.

In certain cases, a mild tranquilizer of the class known as the benzodiazepiness may be prescribed. Examples include diazepam, flurazepam, and temazepam. While they can effective, these drugs can also be habit-forming and have such possible side effects as confusion, weakness, liver stress, and blood abnormalities. A related drug, triazolam, can also bring sleep, but is associated with even more disturbing side effects, including amnesia, anxiety, hallucinations, and depression.

A newer drug, zolpodem, may be tried. Zolpidem supposedlu causes fewer problems than other agents used to induce sleep, but it can leave the user with a drugged feeling while awake, as well as dizziness, diarrhea, and amnesia.

An antidepressant such asamitriptyline or imipramine may be suggested, particularly if sleep problems are related to depression. These should be used only under the supervision of a psychiatrist experienced in their use. Possible side effects include heart attack, stroke, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, urinary retention, involuntary movements, rashes, bone-marrow depression, and decreased libido.

There are numerous over the counter medications that claim to promote sleep. On the whole, it is best to avoid these. Insomnia is a prime area in which to consider alternatives.

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