Insomnia and short-acting benzodiazepine hypnotics.

Insomnia--the chronic inability to obtain the amount and quality of sleep needed for effective daytime function--is a common subjective complaint. Several major causes exist, and many strategems can be used in management. When drugs are indicated, the benzodiazepines are the first choice. Flurazepam, a long-acting compound, has recently been complemented by temazepam, a shorter-acting hypnotic. The pharmacokinetics, actions, and clinical uses of temazepam are reviewed. It is concluded that temazepam is preferable where daytime alertness must be unimpaired, with flurazepam reserved for patients who need daytime sedation.