In an article recently published in Pediatrics, researchers studied the effect of eszopliclone(Lunesta) on ADHD related insomnia and found it to be ineffective in helping children ages 6-12 get to sleep any faster than placebo.
Eszoplicone (Lunesta) is one of the most widely prescribed agents for insomnia. However, like many of these agents, it has several drawbacks including next day impairment (think driving accidents) and potential for addiction. Now, this research suggests that typical sleep medications may not help patients with ADHD.
What can a person with ADHD and insomnia do?
1) Keep a regular schedule.
2) Avoid being overstimulated at bedtime. This includes bright screens, intense exercise, and being overfed.
3) Take your stimulant earlier in the day, if possible. This includes caffeine.
4) Learn specific relaxation techniques to promote sleepiness.
For details, see my article on ADHD and Insomnia.
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