Sleep Medication Quiz

A leading cause of insomnia is the sleeping pill withdrawal syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by a number of different symptoms, depending on the type of sleeping that is stopped. The leading symptom of the syndrome is insomnia. Learn more about the vicious cycle of sleeping pill use.

The overall use of sleeping pills has not declined, despite research showing that non-pharmacological approaches are better. The number of people taking benzodiazepines has declined over time, but more people are taking Z-drugs and, of concern, sedating antidepressants and antipsychotics for insomnia. Learn about CBTi, a better treatment for insomnia than sleeping pills.

All medications approved for treating insomnia in Canada to be used typically for 2 weeks or less and no longer than 4 weeks. This is because the risks outweigh the benefits and there are safer, more effective alternatives.

Z-drugs and benzodiazepines work the same way and have the same risks. Studies show that the risk for falls and fractures is increased with Z-drugs, just as it is with benzodiazepines. Learn more about the dangers of sleeping pills.

American and European guidelines for the treatment of insomnia recommend CBTi first-line. Sleeping pills are only to be used short-term if CBTi is not effective.