Background: There are a wide range of reasons why hypnotic agents may be started, but there is substantive evidence that they are often overused or misused.
Objective: To review the reasons for stopping hypnotic agents, how to detect their use, how to facilitate the decision to withdraw and how to most effectively achieve withdrawal. In this article, the target group is using but not intentionally abusing hypnotic agents.
Discussion: In many cases it is possible for patients to permanently stop using hypnotic drugs. Withdrawal can generally be achieved in the community, using a gradual taper regimen, although it is often a difficult process and is more effective when the patient is aware of the health benefits to be gained from withdrawal. Once withdrawn, other approaches to maintain sleep need to be reinforced to reduce the risk of recommencing hypnotic therapy.