To provide an overview of the use of ramelteon for the treatment of insomnia.
Data Sources:
A literature review was conducted through PubMed using the terms ramelteon, insomnia, treatment, adverse events, elderly, and melatonin. Additionally, reference citations from publications identified were reviewed. Data from 1982 to 2009 were gathered.
Study Selection and Data Extraction:
All articles in English that were identified from the data sources were evaluated.
Data Synthesis:
Long-term clinical trials of ramelteon have demonstrated that it is effective and safe, causing minimal adverse effects and no potential for abuse. Additionally, discontinuation of ramelteon does not result in rebound insomnia, which makes it an ideal agent for the management of insomnia in the elderly population.
Conclusions:
Ramelteon offers a safe and effective new therapeutic option for patients experiencing transient or chronic insomnia.
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