Substance abuse and insomnia.

Abstract

Insomnia is a common complaint among people with substance use disorders. The relationship between sleep problems and substance abuse is bidirectional: People who have trouble sleeping may medicate with alcohol or illicit drugs or misuse prescription medications. And taking certain substances can interfere with sleep. This article reviews that relationship and presents information about the two evidence-based treatments for insomnia: prescription sleep medications and cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. Clinicians treating people with a substance use disorder or insomnia should be aware of the risks of comorbidity, and they should understand the risks and benefits of treatment for the insomnia.