Chloralhydrat

Abstract

Chloral hydrate, the oldest hypnotic on the market, is currently enjoying a certain renaissance. In the present paper we have examined the question of which indications exist for chloral hydrate in geriatrics on the basis of our knowledge of its pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, undesirable effects and interactions. The discussion clearly shows that chloral hydrate plays an important role in sleep medication for the elderly, in particular due to its rapid onset of action, the absence of any impairment of physiological sleep, the lack of a hangover, and the minimal side effects.