Article: Drugs used to treat insomnia.(The Providence Journal)

There are four groups of medications used to treat insomnia:

_Over-the-counter products, such as Benadryl, herbal preparations, and melatonin.

Their use against insomnia is not supported by scientific study and may cause harmful side effects. Benadryl is associated with increased falls and fractures in nursing homes.

_Classic sedating antidepressants, such as Trazadone and Amitriptyline.

No longer drugs of choice for depression, they are popular with primary-care physicians for insomnia. Often used by patients with chronic pain.

_Benzodiazepines, such as Valium, Dalmane, Restoril.

Some can be very long-acting, and ...

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