An Overview Of Common Insomnia Treatments

For most people, a diagnosis of insomnia is only the beginning. Like many sleep disorders, insomnia can prove difficult to treat. A reason for this is no two people are alike. A healthcare expert must carefully consider your individual health and any underlying conditions that may contribute to the type of insomnia you have.

Often, conventional medications are used to treat insomnia. Many healthcare providers will recommend over-the-counter or OTC medications to treat insomnia. For some people with sleep disorders however, these insomnia medications do not help with chronic insomnia.

Prescription Medications

OTC insomnia medications are often the first line of therapy healthcare providers use to treat insomnia, especially stress insomnia or fleeting cases of insomnia. People suffering from chronic insomnia may find prescription medications more helpful. There are many insomnia medications available by prescription. Some of the more common include:

• benzodiazepines
• benzodiazepine receptor agonists
• hypnotic sedatives
• sedating antidepressants

You may recognize some of these medications by their brand names, like Ambien or Lunesta.

Not all people respond well to prescription medications for insomnia. When used for long periods, these drugs may prove habit forming. Most doctors recommend them for short-term therapy.

Natural Remedies

There are also non-chemical remedies, natural remedies and alternative insomnia treatments available for people with chronic insomnia and related sleep disorders. Some examples include:

• behavioral therapy, often a first-line treatment for insomnia
• herbs
• acupuncture
• yoga
• lifestyle changes

If you decide to try alternative therapies for treating insomnia, you should always inform your primary healthcare provider. Just because an insomnia medication or treatment is natural does not imply it is safe.

Many herbs interact with common medications. They can cause medication to be more or less potent. When herbs and insomnia medications or other drugs interact, they may also damage the kidney or liver. Because of this, it is important you talk with your doctor so the two of you can decide the best and safest course of treatment.

For patients living with insomnia, prompt treatment is essential to their long-term wellness. Chronic insomnia can dramatically decrease the quality of your life and your ability to function. Fortunately, when it comes to treating insomnia, there is a wealth of choices available to you.