For the majority of patients with acute insomnia
spontaneous recovery does indeed occur. Acute
episodes that last between 2-4 wk, however, may
develop into chronic insomnia. For this reason, and
the many consequences of chronic insomnia, early
intervention is warranted. This may be accomplished
with acute short-term prescription of current
generation hypnotics. In choosing the hypnotic,
consideration should be given to matching the half-life
of the medication prescribed to the specific insomnia
complaint