PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF INSOMNIA

Roser Llop Rius, David Clusa Gironella

Insomnia is defined as difficulty in initiating, maintaining, duration, or quality of sleep. This results in an alteration of daytime functioning and quality of life. It is a common symptom that increases with age and is accompanied by significant morbidity. It is estimated that it affects between 6% and 48% of the general population

The most frequent insomnia is secondary to some organic or psychiatric disorder, or a modifiable external stimulus. In 30% of the cases, we speak of primary insomnia; in this case, the diagnosis is made by exclusion (insomnia without a triggering cause). The goal of treatment is to improve symptoms and quality of life. The treatment of choice sleep non-pharmacological measures. In cases where it is required, a hypnotic such as a benzodiazepine can be used at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible period.