#88 - Sleep & Sleeping Pills with Dr. Ranji Varghese

Matt Walker welcomes Dr. Ranji Varghese to the podcast this week for an in-depth conversation about sleep and prescription sleeping pills. A psychiatrist specializing in sleep medicine, Dr. Varghese begins by discussing his entry into the field which was sparked by a fascination with sleep and wake circadian rhythms. He goes on to highlight the Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorder Center's focus on parasomnias, particularly REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, emphasizing the intersection of neuroscience, physiology, and psychology in sleep medicine.

As you will hear, sleeping pills, prescribed to initiate or maintain sleep, are typically used as a last resort for insomnia after other treatments fail. Dr. Varghese explains they work by modulating brain activity, often targeting neurotransmitters like GABA or melatonin receptors. He details two main classes: benzodiazepines (like Restoril and Ativan) and non-benzodiazepines (Z-drugs like Ambien and Lunesta), outlining their mechanisms, benefits, and risks. His powerful personal anecdote and the discussion of complex sleep-related behaviors underscore the critical need for careful consideration and informed decision-making when using these medications.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

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As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker or on X @sleepdiplomat

Connect with Dr. Varghese:
Instagram: @docvarghese
X: @docvarghese

Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center:
https://www.hennepinhealthcare.org/specialty/minnesota-regional-sleep-disorders-center/
IIT-MN: https://iit-mn.com/