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  • Title: Insomnia. Safe and effective therapy for sleep problems in the older patient.
    Author: Schneider DL.
    Journal: Geriatrics; 2002 May; 57(5):24-6, 29, 32 passim. PubMed ID: 12040591.
    Abstract:
    Insomnia is a problem in all stages of life but is particularly common after age 65. A number of factors--including advanced age, psychosocial influences, medical illness, and the use of medications and alcohol--may disturb sleep architecture. Evaluation of insomnia in the older patient requires a careful history and physical examination, supplemented by a sleep diary. Treatment of underlying conditions and nonpharmacologic improvements in sleep hygiene are first-line therapy, but pharmacologic agents such as benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, or antidepressants may be needed. Nonbenzodiazepines with rapid elimination may offer a lower side-effect profile than other hypnotic agents when used for insomnia in the older population.
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