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What Causes Difficulty To Sleep?

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Posted on Wed, 30 May 2018
Question: SOMETIMES, ONE OR TWO TIMES PER MONTH, I WILL WAKE UP AND BE ALL AGITATED AND UNABLE TO
GET BACK TO SLEEP VERY UNPLEASANT WHAT TO YOU RECOMMEND
I AM A RETIRED PHARMACIST AND HAVE NEVER ABUSED ANY DRUG
I HAVE USED DIAZEPAM WHEN THIS HAS HAPPENED PERHAPS 10 TIMES PER YEAR
doctor
Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

Benzodiazepines are contraindicated for people over 65 given risk of falls, delirium, dementia, withdrawal, coma, and death. Furthermore, benzodiazepines alter sleep architecture resulting in an inefficient sleep particularly in older people. Instead, try non-benzodiazepine medications such as melatonin, Ramelteon, or trazodone. Even better is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi).

Dr. Sheppe
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 2236 Questions

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What Causes Difficulty To Sleep?

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Hello, and thanks for your question. Benzodiazepines are contraindicated for people over 65 given risk of falls, delirium, dementia, withdrawal, coma, and death. Furthermore, benzodiazepines alter sleep architecture resulting in an inefficient sleep particularly in older people. Instead, try non-benzodiazepine medications such as melatonin, Ramelteon, or trazodone. Even better is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi). Dr. Sheppe