New programs aim to help seniors kick the sleeping pill habit
NCT ID NCT03687086
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested two programs to help older adults stop taking sleeping pills like lorazepam or zolpidem. One program focused on placebo effects—the power of believing a treatment works—while the other did not. Both included cognitive behavioral therapy and special pill packaging. The goal was to see which program helped more people quit sleeping pills safely.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
cognitive behavioral therapy
What this could lead to
If successful, this could provide a better way to help older adults stop taking sleeping pills, reducing health risks.
What could go wrong
This is a completed study, but results may not apply to everyone. The programs require weekly sessions, which may not be practical for all.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
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VA Greater Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California, 90073, United States