Are there new treatments for insomnia?

Insomnia is a symptom that can have multiple different causes and methods of treatment. The National Sleep Foundation estimates that some 45 million Americans complain of insomnia.

"Medical" causes insomnia include Restless Legs, periodic leg movements in sleep, which can be treated with medications such as Mirapex and Requip. Individuals with other medical conditions such as pain, neuropathy and heart or lung disease can experience insomnia on occasion and can be treated. Among the 25 million shift workers in the U.S., many experience at least occasional insomnia related to their sleep or work schedules.

FDA approved prescription medications for insomnia such as Ambien (zolpidem) and Sonata (zaleplon) are effective for the short-term (2-3 weeks) treatment of insomnia. Recently the FDA approved Lunesta (ezopiclone) for the long-term treatment of insomnia. Clinical experience in Europe and the US over the past 10-15 years has shown these medications to be safe and effective when taken as prescribed.

Lawrence W. Kneisley, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Sleep Medicine
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc