- Decreases circadian-mediated arousal at bedtime, not sedating
- Minimal changes in sleep architecture
- Little interaction with other neurotransmitters
- More consistent preparation
- No evidence of residual daytime effects
- Classified by the FDA as a hypnotic (non-schedule IV); no limitations on duration of use, no abuse potential
| - Treatment of sleep-onset insomnia only
- Moderate efficacy; objective (PSG-documented) improvements are more prominent than subjective (patient-perceived) improvements
- Side effects:
- Dizziness, fatigue
- Increased prolactin or decreased testosterone reported
- Avoid co-administration with fluvoxamine
- Cost; lack of insurance coverage
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