05:59 PM EST on Wednesday, March 15, 2006

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The country's most popular sleeping pill has been in the news lately. Some users of Ambien say it leads to driving in their sleep and eating huge amounts of food while sleeping.

But local doctors say don't be afraid of Ambien but do look for other insomnia cures.

“Our society rewards work and effort and doesn't reward relaxation and taking care of yourself.”

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Just one reason insomnia is a growing problem. At their research facility, doctors David Winslow and Ryan Wetzler help people get to the root of their insomnia. Ambien can be part of the cure.

“In general, it’s shown to be safe and effective, particularly in short term use.”

But some people report Ambien leading to odd side effects. One man who was stopped by police says he drove in his sleep with taking Ambien. One woman says she ate and cooked while sleeping because of Ambien.

The company that makes Ambien says "...although sleepwalking may occur during treatment with Ambien... it may not necessarily be caused by it. It is difficult to determine with certainty whether a particular instance of sleepwalking is drug induced, spontaneous in origin or a result of an underlying disorder.”

“If you're going to take any sleeping pill, you've got to make sure you have adequate time in bed, seven to eight hours. It's probably best to start with the lower dose.”

Dr. Wetzler specializes in drug-free cures for insomnia. Behavior modification is his specialty.

“Keep a regular sleep/wake schedule. That's the most important thing and what's probably most important of that recommendations making sure you're getting up at the same time each day.”

Dr. Wetzler has several other tips to help you get a peaceful night's sleep.

Create a regular, relaxing sleep routine, such as reading a book or listening to soothing music before you go to bed.

Make sure your room is conducive to sleep -- that it's dark, quiet and comfortable.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.

Web story produced by Jay Ditzer.