Duration is the most important guide to intervention.
Therapies include behavior modification, exercise, and medication. Drugs for patients who require long-term therapy should be selected to minimize side effects. Long-acting drugs should be used with caution in the elderly. Dr. Meyer is Professor of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and Associate Chief of Staff, Ambulatory Care, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver. Insomnia is a subjective condition of insufficient or nonrestorative sleep despite an adequate opportunity to sleep.