Effects of brotizolam on the sleep of chronic insomniacs.

Effects of 0.5 mg brotizolam on the sleep of chronic insomniacs were assessed electroencephalographically and subjectively over 14 days. Brotizolam (0.5 mg) increased total sleep time, decreased drowsy (stage 1) sleep and increased stage 2 sleep. At this dose it also decreased slow wave and rapid eye movement sleep. On withdrawal there was evidence of insomnia in some subjects during the first night. The drug was well tolerated. Further studies are indicated with lower doses of the drug.