Earlier this week the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality released a research summary for clinicians, Management of Insomnia Disorder in Adults: Current State of the Evidence, which highlights findings from an AHRQ-funded evidence review.

The report made the following conclusions:

    • Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) appears to be effective and safe as treatment for insomnia disorder.

 

    • Guidelines from professional organizations such as the American College of Physicians and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommend CBT-I as the first-line treatment for all adults with chronic insomnia disorder.

 

    • Web-based CBT-I may be an option for individuals without access to a therapist trained in CBT-I techniques.

 

    • Some medications appear to be effective for insomnia in the short term (e.g., up to 3 months), but they have numerous potential side effects, some of which are serious.

 

  • In light of the limited evidence regarding long-term benefits and the potential for serious adverse effects, medications should be used for insomnia disorder with caution.

Also available is a companion guide for patients to support shared decision-making between clinicians, patients and caregivers.