Pharmacological management of sleep after traumatic brain injury

NeuroRehabilitation. 2018;43(3):347-353. doi: 10.3233/NRE-182536.

Abstract

Sleep-wake disturbances (SWD) are prevalent in the traumatic brain injury (TBI) population and may exacerbate related neurobehavioral impairments. As such, it is important to recognize and treat SWD early to allow for optimal cognitive recovery following a TBI. A number of medications are currently available for treatment of SWD. However, most research in this area has historically focused on neurologically intact populations. This article reviews key pharmacologic treatment principles and agents to consider for use in the treatment of TBI-related SWD. In addition, it highlights available research literature that has examined the use of sleep medications in this unique population.

Keywords: Brain injury; medications; pharmacology; sleep; therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic / complications
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic / drug therapy*
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic / physiopathology
  • Disease Management*
  • GABA Agonists / pharmacology
  • GABA Agonists / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Prevalence
  • Receptors, Melatonin / agonists
  • Sleep / drug effects*
  • Sleep / physiology
  • Sleep Aids, Pharmaceutical / pharmacology
  • Sleep Aids, Pharmaceutical / therapeutic use*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / physiopathology

Substances

  • GABA Agonists
  • Receptors, Melatonin
  • Sleep Aids, Pharmaceutical