What factors contribute to a patient long term use of a pres

What factors contribute to a patient long term use of a prescribed sleep aide? cite reference

Solution

Long term intake of sleeping medication is needed in case of long term sleep disorders, psychologically ill patients, those suffering from other chronic diseases such as cancer, age induced sleep deprivation, etc. However, taking hypnotics (induce sleep) for longer time causes dependence and tolerance. This occurs due to receptor down regulation, which further increase the dose to be taken to maintain the normal sleep pattern.

Reference:

Krakow, B., Ulibarri, V. A., & Romero, E. A. (2010). Patients With Treatment-Resistant Insomnia Taking Nightly Prescription Medications for Sleep: A Retrospective Assessment of Diagnostic and Treatment Variables. Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 12(4), PCC.09m00873.