How to Coach Yourself and Others Coaching and Counseling in Difficult Circumstances | Page 42
This book is in B&W, not color - Print page in Grayscale for Correct view!
Hypnotics
What are they?
Hypnotics are used as a short-term treatment for insomnia.
• Non-benzodiazepine hypnotics include chloral hydrate, chloral betaine (Welldorm), clomethiazole
(Heminevrin), promethazine (Phenergan), diphenhydramine (Nytol), zaleplon (Sonata) and zopicline
(Zimovane).
Promethazine and diphenhydramine are antihistamines. Chlormethiazole (Heminevrin) can help agitation and
restlessness as well as alcohol-withdrawal symptoms.
Side-effects
Common side-effects
All hypnotics: drowsiness, dizziness, reduced reaction times during the day.
Rare but important side-effects
• Chloral: rashes/blotches, wheeziness (especially if the patient has asthma).
• Antihistamines: wheeziness (especially if the patient has asthma), palpitations/fast heart beat.
• If any of the above occur, advise the patient to stop the drug and consult the doctor immediately.
Important notes about hypnotics
• They are commonly traded illicitly on the street and in prison. Ensure that the drug goes to, and is taken by,
the person for whom it is prescribed.
• They may cause addiction if taken regularly for longer than 4–6 weeks and should be taken in as low a dose as
possible for the shortest time possible. Taking them only when required or every few days (eg on alternate
nights) can be a useful way to use the drugs safely.
• It is recommended that chlormethiazole is taken for no longer than 9 days if used to help alcohol withdrawal.
• If dependence occurs, withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, tension, poor concentration, difficulty in
sleeping (‘rebound insomnia’), palpitations and sweating.
For [email protected]
Property of Bookemon, do NOT distribute
44