How should I evaluate and manage chronic insomnia (≥3 months) in an adult, including sleep‑hygiene, cognitive‑behavioral therapy for insomnia, and appropriate pharmacologic options, especially for patients ≥65 years?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 13, 2026View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Related Questions

How can I adjust my extended-release (XR) medication dosage to reduce insomnia?
Which is more potent for insomnia, Atarax (hydroxyzine) or Unisom (doxylamine)?
What is the most appropriate management approach for a 63-year-old individual experiencing insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, with symptoms including fatigue and poor concentration?
What are the next steps for a 34-year-old with insomnia who has not responded to Unisom (doxylamine) and melatonin?
What are the alternatives to traditional sleep medications, specifically tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), for a patient with insomnia who experiences grogginess as a side effect?
What is the appropriate initial assessment and management for a patient identified by nursing staff as possibly having an anxiety disorder?
What are the differential diagnoses and management for a patient with hemoglobin 11 g/dL, low red‑cell indices (microcytosis/hypochromia), a history of breast cancer, and current tamoxifen therapy?
Which anti‑tuberculosis drug should be avoided in a patient with hepatomegaly?
When should an abdominal ultrasound be performed as the initial imaging study for a patient presenting with abdominal pain?
Is the described retroperitoneal lymph node with diffuse proliferation of small mature lymphocytes and partial loss of architecture indicative of cancer?
In a healthy adult without thyroid disorder, pregnancy, or history of nephrolithiasis, what are the benefits of sea moss capsules and the optimal timing for administration?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.