Sleep specialists weigh hypnotics, behavioral therapies for insomnia
Article Abstract:
The combination of behavior modification, exercise and a hypnotic drug when needed are effective treatments for insomnia. Insomnia is characterized by trouble falling asleep or staying asleep and can also cause daytime drowsiness. It can lead to depression and psychiatric distress if untreated. Benzodiazepines are the most common hypnotic drugs used but there are many behavioral treatments that are very effective. They include keeping regular hours, going to bed at the same time every night, reserving the bedroom for sleeping and sex only, getting regular exercise and avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bedtime.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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'Old and gray and full of sleep'? Not always
Article Abstract:
Many elderly adults have trouble sleeping through the night and physicians are trying to provide alternatives to drugs. It is especially difficult for nursing home residents to sleep at night because they must often be awakened to take medication or have their diapers changed. Noise in the nursing home can also make it difficult to sleep. Menopause is often linked to sleep disorders in women because hot flashes during the night can awaken them. Exercise, time outdoors, regular sleep hours and avoiding tobacco, caffeine and alcohol can improve sleep.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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Melatonin potentially useful but safety, efficacy remain uncertain
Article Abstract:
Physicians should not encourage their patients to use melatonin until more research determines whether the hormone is effective and has few side effects. Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally by the body that appears to help synchronize the body's internal clock. There are few research studies evaluating its effectiveness in insomnia but news reports prompted 20 million Americans to begin using the chemical in 1995. Melatonin may be most effective in preventing jet lag and in helping people on swing shifts adapt to working at night.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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