Sleep Disorders Flashcards
What are the different types of sleeping disorders
1) Transient insomnia
External factors such as noise, shift work, and jet lag
Rapidly eliminated hypnotic should be chosen, only 1-2 doses should be given
2) short-term insomnia
Emotional problem or serious medical illness
Hypnotic can be useful but should not be given for more than 3 weeks (Preferably only one week)
3) chronic insomnia
Normally has a cause such as anxiety, depression and alcohol/drug use
The underlying psychiatric complaint should be treated
What pharmacological intervention is used for insomnia
There are two types of benzodiazepines
Long acting and short acting
Long acting:
Nitrazepam, diazepam and flurazepam
Higher hangover effects on the following day
Used for sleep maintenance has a longer half life
Short acting:
Loprazolam, lormetazepam and temazepam
Little or no hangover effect
Used for sleep onset- just get you to sleep
Higher chance of withdrawal symptoms
What is meant by Z-hypnotics
Zolpidem and zopiclone
Works by increasing GABA and causes CNS depression
Dependency occurs within 3-14 days of use
Should be taken intermittently
Should be used for 4 weeks max
What are some of the counselling points of Z- hypnotics
Benzodiazepine and z-drugs: avoid in the elderly due to risk of falls and injury
Paradoxical side effects can cause people to stay awake rather than helping them to fall asleep
Drowsiness
Dependence