Overview
Insomnia is difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling rested despite adequate opportunity. Chronic insomnia (>3 nights/week for >3 months) has strong non-drug treatments that beat sleeping pills long-term.
Symptoms to watch for
- Taking more than 30 minutes to fall asleep
- Waking during the night and unable to return to sleep
- Waking too early
- Daytime fatigue, mood, or concentration problems
What else could this be?
- Sleep apnea
- Restless legs syndrome
- Anxiety or depression
- Chronic pain
- Hyperthyroidism
- Menopause
How it's diagnosed
Sleep diary, screening for apnea (STOP-BANG), and evaluation for underlying mood, pain, or hormonal causes.
Treatment
First-line: CBT-I (cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia) — apps like Sleepio or CBT-i Coach are free. Sleep hygiene, stimulus control, and sleep restriction outperform pills. Non-controlled options: doxepin low-dose, trazodone, ramelteon, melatonin. Clindle doesn't prescribe Ambien, Lunesta, or benzodiazepines.
When to book a visit
Book if sleep problems have lasted more than a month.
Book online todayFrequently asked
Is melatonin safe?
Yes, generally, at low doses (0.5–3 mg) taken 1–2 hours before bedtime. Higher doses aren't better and can leave morning grogginess.
Does Clindle prescribe Ambien?
No — controlled sleep medications require in-person prescribing. We offer non-controlled options with better long-term profiles.