Sleep Disorders and Prescription Sleep Aids

Currently, a number of prescription sleep aids are available to those with short-term or even severe sleep disorders. They include Ambien, Sonata and Lunesta.

Ambien and Sonata are both approved for short-term use of sleep disorders while Lunesta, a new form of therapy, has been approved for long-term use for sleep disorders. None should be used without the guidance of your doctor.

Most sleeping pills fall under the class of hypnotics. They can stop working after several weeks of nightly use, and long-term use can actually interfere with good sleep. Some side-effects can occur, such as morning drowsiness, forgetfulness and nausea. Mild insomnia often can be prevented or cured by practicing good sleep habits.

For more serious sleep disorders, researchers are experimenting with light therapy and other ways to alter circadian rhythms.

--SleepDisorderOnline