Sleep Disorders Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is classed as short term insomnia
Less than 3 months
What do we treat short term insomnia with
Sleep hygiene
Z drugs
Melatonin
Antihistamines
Benzos
How long should benzos and z-hypnotics be given for in short term insomnia
No more than 2 weeks
What is classed as chronic insomnia
More than 3 months
Which drugs can we not treat chronic insomnia with?
What is the exception
Z-hypnotics
Only if short course less than 1 week for an acute episode
What do we give for chronic insomnia patients (age)
Melatonin over 55
What are the Z-hypnotics
Zolpidem
Zopiclone
How long does it take for z-hypnotic to work
Around 1 hr
How to avoid dependence of z-hypnotics ? How long should they be used for
Take for 2-3 nights per week
No more than 4 weeks
What are the side effects of z-hypnotics
Metallic or bitter taste
Falls - 65+ higher risk
How is melatonin taken
1-2hrs before bed and after food
How long can melatonin be used for
Up to 13 weeks
What are the side effects of melatonin
Arthralgia and back pain
Headaches
Increased risk of infection
