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Treatments for Insomnia

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The treatment and management of insomnia depends on its underlying cause. Transient or intermittent insomnia may not need treatment since it lasts only a few days. When treatment is needed it may involve lifestyle changes, medications, and other treatments.

The first step in treating insomnia is to identify and treat any underlying medical or psychological problems. The ultimate goal is to achieve a normal and restorative pattern of sleep.

Treatment involves the following:

Lifestyle changesMedicationsOther treatmentsComplementary and alternative treatments

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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References

  • Can't Sleep? What to know about insomnia. National Sleep Foundation website. Available at: http://www.sleepfoundation.org/article/sleep-related-problems/insomnia-and-sleep. Accessed May 15, 2013.

  • How is insomnia treated? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/inso/treatment.html. Updated December 13, 2011. Accessed May 15, 2013.

  • Insomnia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Updated April 11, 2013. Accessed May 15, 2013.

  • Insomnia. Quick Answers to Medical Diagnosis and Therapy. Access Medicine website. Available at: http://accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aid=3267380. Accessed May 15, 2013

  • Parmet S, Burke A, Glass RM. Insomnia. JAMA Patient Page. 2006 June 28.295(24).

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