Identify the cause

The first step in treating insomnia is to evaluate an individual’s sleeping habits and encourage them to adopt good ‘sleep hygiene’ (see next page). Keeping a sleep diary of the time they go to bed, get up, the number of times they’re awake in the night, when they’re tired in the day and their lifestyle, such as diet, exercise and stress, can be a helpful starting point.

CBT 

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

OTC medication 

OTC sleep aids are based on older style antihistamines that have drowsiness as a side effect. While this may not be desirable for treating hayfever during the day, it can help to promote sleep. Common antihistamines used in OTC products include promethazine (e.g. Sominex) and diphenhydramine (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 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. OTC brands include Kalms Night, Kira Restful Sleep, Nytol Herbal Tablets and Sominex Herbal.