Treatment options

The first step in treating insomnia is to evaluate the person’s sleeping habits and encourage them to adopt good ‘sleep hygiene’.

Keeping a sleep diary of the time they go to bed, get up, the number of times they wake up in the night, when they are tired during the day and their lifestyle – including diet, exercise and stress – can be a helpful starting point.

OTC medication 

Sleep aids available over the counter (OTC) are generally based on older style antihistamines that have drowsiness as a side effect. Common antihistamines used in OTC products include promethazine hydrochloride (e.g. Sominex) and diphenhydramine hydrochloride (e.g. Nytol). These are useful for short-term relief from temporary sleep disturbances in people aged over 16. However, customers should be warned that they may experience drowsiness the following day and should be cautious if they plan to drive or operate machinery. Such products should not be taken for longer than seven days without medical advice. If any customers are making repeat requests or purchasing multiple packs, refer them to the pharmacist.

Natural and complementary remedies 

Herbal sleep products are often based on ingredients such as hops, valerian and passiflora. They are thought to work by promoting calmness and encouraging natural sleep. The effects may not be immediate, so warn customers that some products may need to be taken continuously for two to four weeks before they see any improvement. Examples include: Kalms Night, Kira Restful Sleep, Nytol Herbal, Sominex Herbal.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may be recommended in severe cases of insomnia and stress. It involves strategies such as sleep restriction therapy, relaxation training and stimulus control.