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Other sleeping pills
A number of sleeping tablets are available on prescription which are not benzodiazepines. All of these sleeping tablets are recommended for temporary insomnia only and for short term use (2-4 weeks).
Long term nightly use of any sleeping pill is not recommended because:
(a) use of these pills does not cure the sleep problem and
(b) you may become dependent on the drugs.
See “The Better Sleep Book” for strategies for insomnia here.
The sleeping pill Zolpidem Tartrate, of which the brand Stilnox is probably most well known, has been associated with the reporting of a number of dangerous adverse events such as sleep walking or sleep driving.
If you have been taking sleeping pills for longer than a few weeks, it is recommended that you do not stop taking the pills suddenly, but rather cut down the dose slowly, because of the possibility of withdrawal symptoms. It is advisable to discuss the use of sleeping pills with your doctor.
Information about sleeping pills or other drugs can be obtained by calling Medicines Line on 1300 888 763.
Medicines Line is staffed by clinical pharmacists and operated by the National Prescribing Service Ltd., an independent Australian organisation for Quality Use of Medicines.
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