Somnifacient

From WikiMD's Medical Encyclopedia

Somnifacient refers to any substance that induces sleep. They are often used in the treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders. Somnifacients include pharmaceutical drugs, herbs, plants, and foods.

Pharmaceutical Drugs[edit]

Pharmaceutical drugs used as somnifacients include benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepines, barbiturates, and various others. These drugs work by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that reduces the activity of the nervous system, leading to sedation and sleep.

Benzodiazepines[edit]

Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that are commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. Examples of benzodiazepines include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and lorazepam (Ativan).

Nonbenzodiazepines[edit]

Nonbenzodiazepines, also known as "Z-drugs," are a class of psychoactive drugs that are used primarily as sleeping aids. They work in a similar way to benzodiazepines, but have a different chemical structure. Examples of nonbenzodiazepines include zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and zaleplon (Sonata).

Barbiturates[edit]

Barbiturates are a class of drugs that were once widely used as sedatives and sleeping aids, but have largely been replaced by benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines due to their high potential for addiction and overdose. Examples of barbiturates include phenobarbital and secobarbital (Seconal).

Herbs and Plants[edit]

Certain herbs and plants are also used as somnifacients, either in their natural form or as extracts or essential oils. These include valerian, chamomile, lavender, and passionflower.

Foods[edit]

Certain foods are also known to promote sleep. These include foods that are high in tryptophan, a precursor to the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin. Examples of such foods include turkey, milk, and bananas.

See Also[edit]

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