Pharmacists in sport - Royal Pharmaceutical Society

F E AT U R E S L E E P
PRACTICE GUIDANCE:
PHARMACEUTICAL CARE
IN SLEEP DISORDERS
Professional practice
We bring you an update and the latest expert advice on
dealing with patients suffering from sleep disorders
GUIDANCE OBJECTIVES
• To gain an understanding of sleep disorders and their
management
• Identify pharmaceutical issues and meet patients’ needs
• Explore and implement pharmaceutical care services for
sleep disorders in practice
RPSGB competencies for completing a CPD entry (see
appendix 6 of “Plan and Record” www.uptodate.org.uk):-
• “making sound decisions and solving problems in
relation to drug therapy”
• “promoting health and healthy lifestyles”
Background
Sleep is a vital biological process that is necessary to restore
both the body and mind. Most adults need 7 to 8 hours of
sleep each night but this varies greatly between individuals.
Children and adolescents need to sleep longer (sleep is
important for growth and development); elderly people need
less sleep.
Insomnia (sleeplessness) is the most common sleep
problem. Insomnia is a prolonged inability to obtain
adequate or uninterrupted sleep. Types of insomnia are:-
• Transient insomnia – lasts a few days and is usually a
result of a stressful situation e.g. an exam or as a result of
an altered sleep routine e.g. jet lag or shift work.
• Short-term insomnia – lasts 1-4 weeks. It is typically due
to emotional trauma or physical illness.
• Chronic insomnia – affects about a third of those suffering
from insomnia and lasts more than one month. It is usually
a result of ingrained poor sleep hygiene.
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26 Pharmacy Professional | February 2010
February 2010 | Pharmacy Professional
27