Should sedatives like lorazepam be avoided in people prone to sleepwalking?

Sedatives, such as lorazepam, are often used to help people sleep better. However, for those who are prone to sleepwalking, these medications might not be ideal. According to the available references, sleepwalking is a type of NREM parasomnia, and sedatives could potentially worsen these sleep disorders rather than help them.

1. Understanding Sleepwalking:

   • Sleepwalking happens during deep sleep and can cause people to walk or do other activities while they are still asleep.

2. Sedatives and Sleepwalking:

   • Sedatives are meant to calm the brain and help with sleep, but they might also increase the chances of sleepwalking episodes. This is because they affect the brain's sleep patterns.

3. Considerations:

   • If someone is experiencing sleepwalking, it may be better to explore other treatments or therapies that do not involve sedatives like lorazepam. Always consult with a healthcare provider for the best approach.

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