Medication treatments for insomnia are indicated for improving sleep onset, sleep maintenance, or both. Examples of medications with evidence of benefit for insomnia include orexin receptor antagonists (suvorexant), nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics (eszopiclone Lunesta, zolpidem Ambien, zaleplon Sonata), certain benzodiazepines (triazolam, temazepam), melatonin agonists (ramelteon Rozerem), and certain antidepressants (doxepin Silenor). Although medications such as trazodone, tiagabine, and diphenhydramine are commonly used, experts do not recommend them for chronic insomnia due to potential harms and inadequate evidence of benefit.[1]
What are some of the main medical treatments for insomnia?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Medical treatments for insomnia include orexin receptor antagonists, nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, certain benzodiazepines, melatonin agonists, and specific antidepressants. These treatments are effective for improving sleep onset, sleep maintenance, or both.