Best Sedative For Insomnia
For people who have difficulty sleeping, a sleep aid may be necessary. There are a variety of medications available, though some can have serious side effects. Before taking any sleep aid, you should consult your doctor.
Some of the drugs used to treat insomnia are benzodiazepines. These medications work by relaxing the central nervous system. However, they can also lead to dependence and abuse. They are also considered controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Sleep medicines are often used in conjunction with behavioral therapy to help insomnia patients achieve a restful night. Benzodiazepines are typically the first medications prescribed.
Another type of sleep medicine is a hypnotic sedative. This type of medication is usually prescribed for short periods of time.
Eszopiclone (Lunesta) is a hypnotic sedative that works by calming the nerves. It is approved for insomnia treatment in the U.S. But it is not recommended for people who have urinary retention or monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
Ambien is a benzodiazepine that helps people fall and stay asleep. It reduces the amount of time it takes to get to sleep and wake up.
Another medication for insomnia is ramelteon, a selective melatonin receptor agonist. It increases the level of GABA in the brain. Taking ramelteon can reduce the average time you spend awake in the night by eight minutes.
Triazolam is another type of sedative that can be prescribed for insomnia. The drug works by modulating the neurotransmitter serotonin. You can take triazolam in either a 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg dose.