ProSom

ProSom is commonly prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia. The medication comes in the form of a tablet that is taken before bedtime, and is available in two different strengths. It works by enhancing the calming effects of a certain chemical in the brain, which can result in relaxed muscles, reduced anxiety, and sleepiness. Possible side effects of ProSom include dizziness, coordination problems, and drowsiness.

ProSom Drug Information

What Is ProSom?

ProSom^® (estazolam) is a prescription sleep medication approved for the short-term treatment of insomnia.

(Click ProSom Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes ProSom?

ProSom was made by Abbott Pharmaceuticals until May 2007, when the manufacturer decided to stop making this medication. Fortunately, generic ProSom is still available.

How Does ProSom Work?

ProSom belongs to a group of medications known as benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines have several different effects on the body, including:

Relaxing the muscles
Reducing anxiety
Causing sleepiness
Stopping seizures
Impairing short-term memory.

All benzodiazepine medications can have these effects to some degree, depending on the specific medication and the dose. They work in the brain by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical that is naturally calming. GABA can slow down or stop certain nerve signals in the brain. This is why ProSom and other benzodiazepines are known as mild tranquilizers, sedatives, or central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants).

Effects of ProSom

ProSom has been evaluated in several different studies as an insomnia treatment. Some studies showed that it was effective at helping people fall asleep, while others have shown that ProSom can also help people stay asleep. In addition, studies suggest that ProSom may increase the quality of sleep.

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