Physician evaluation and sleep history will determine the appropriate medication for you. While on medications, laboratory test may be part of the ongoing evaluation.

What are the most common treatments for Insomnia?

Ambien (Zolpidem)- is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for insomnia. It lasts longer than zaleplon. Patients should not take it unless they plan on getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep.

Sonata is the shortest-acting hypnotic available.  Because it is rapidly eliminated from the body it may be best for people wh have difficulty falling asleep, not those who wake up often throughout the night.  The drug takes effect within 30 minutes and may be taken at bedtime or later as long as the patient can sleep for at least 4 hours.

Lunesta (Eszopiclone)- may help improve both sleep maintenance and daytime alertness. Eszopiclone is used to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep).  Eszopiclone is in a class of medications called hypnotics.  It works by slowing activity in the brain to allow sleep.  Eszopiclone comes as a tablet to take by mouth.  It is usaually taken once a day at bedtime or after unsuccessfully trying to fall asleep.

Restoril belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines(ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens).  It affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause sleep problems(insomnia).