Adverse effects of temazepam in older adults with chronic insomnia.

Background: Benzodiazepine-hypnotics are frequently used for treating insomnia in older adults; however, there is little information about adverse effects associated with their usage over several weeks, particularly in this segment of the population.

Objective: This study reports on the incidence of adverse effects of temazepam in older adults with chronic insomnia and examines whether the addition of cognitive-behaviour therapy (CBT) is associated with less drug used and fewer adverse effects.

Method: Sixty patients with chronic and primary insomnia were randomized to temazepam (n = 20), placebo (n = 20) or temazepam plus CBT (n = 20).