In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, delayed-release melatonin was associated with improvements in sleep and diurnal parameters, including sleep latency, sleep quality, and morning alertness, in adults with primary insomnia after three weeks of treatment. Currently, Ramelteon is the only melatonin receptor agonist approved by the FDA to treat sleep disorders and is available by prescription. There is little evidence to support the combination of nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatments for sleep disorders. Overall, the evidence base for CBT-I is stronger than for drugs.
What is the drug of choice for sleep disorders?
The benzodiazepine drugs approved in the USA to treat sleep disorders include estazolam, flurazepam, quazepam, temazepam, and triazolam (table. Somryst is a new prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that combines CBTi with an app-based delivery platform. Non-BZD drugs, also known as “Z drugs,” were developed to minimize the side effects and potential for abuse associated with BZDs. A meta-analysis of 13 studies involving more than 4,000 subjects showed that the currently available Z drugs zolpidem, zaleplon and eszopiclone led to a small but statistically significant reduction in subjective and polysomnographic sleep latency compared to placebo.
And taking certain prescription sleeping pills can lead to substance abuse or addiction. Therefore, it is important to follow your doctor’s advice.