New programs aim to help seniors kick the sleeping pill habit

NCT ID NCT03687086

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

insomnia sleep disorder, initiating and maintaining sleep

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SLEEP INITIATION AND MAINTENANCE DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California, Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
VA Greater Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California, 90073, United States

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