Virtually everyone has experienced a nightmare or other odd event during sleep. With parasomnias, which are a type of sleep disorder, these events can be ongoing and cause major disruption to a person’s sleep schedule. Parasomnias are usually broken into two categories based on when they occur within the sleep cycle:
Some parasomnias, such as bedwetting and sleep-related hallucinations, fall outside of these categories.
Medications are sometimes used to treat parasomnias, and the type of medication prescribed will depend on the form of the disorder. With non-REM conditions, medications are not usually the first line of treatment. However, people with particularly disruptive parasomnias may be given benzodiazepines or tricyclic antidepressants.
As for REM parasomnias, melatonin supplements can correct problems with a person’s internal clock. Doctors may also prescribe clonazepam, which is a type of benzodiazepine.
Benzodiazepines are effective for treating certain sleep disorders, but they can carry substantial risk when taken for an extended period. These medications carry a high risk of dependence and using them on a daily basis can lead to problems with addiction. Benzodiazepines can also impair a person’s cognitive function and cause drowsiness.
Tricyclic antidepressants do not carry the same risk of dependence, but these drugs can cause other side effects. You can talk to your doctor about the possible side effects and whether they outweigh the benefits offered. As for melatonin, this supplement is usually safe for most healthy adults when it is taken according to instructions.