Abstract
Purpose of Review: This article provides an overview of current strategies for evaluating and treating patients who experience chronic insomnia.Recent Findings: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications for the treatment of insomnia that incorporate a variety of pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties, thus allowing the development of a customized therapeutic approach. FDA-approved medications include γ-aminobutyric acid-modulating benzodiazepine receptor agonists, a melatonin receptor agonist, and a histamine receptor agonist. Psychological and behavioral techniques combined as cognitive-behavioral therapy also have been shown to be effective in the treatment of chronic insomnia.Summary: Insomnia is the most common sleep disturbance and represents a chronic condition for many people. Difficulty falling asleep and maintaining sleep are highly prevalent problems in patients with neurologic disorders. Multiple factors typically contribute to insomnia. Accordingly, a rather broad approach to evaluating patients is warranted. Evidence-based guidelines support the use of cognitive and behavioral strategies and selected medications in the treatment of patients with chronic insomnia.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 50-66 |
Number of pages | 17 |
Journal | CONTINUUM Lifelong Learning in Neurology |
Volume | 19 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Feb 2013 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Neurology
- Genetics(clinical)