title: [Treatment of sleep disorders in children].
abstract: Sleep disorders require careful evaluation, precise diagnosis and a systematic search for a cause before considering treatment. Hypnotics must never be prescribed directly and when necessary it must be used precautionally during a short period of time, as little is known on their long term effects in children. In addition some psychotropic drugs may lead to tolerance and addiction. Educational and behavioural therapy together with sleep hygiene, have proven to be efficient in most situations. Awaking stimulants are indicated in primary hypersomnia.
authors.affiliation: Service de psychopathologie de l'enfant et de l'adolescent, hôpital Robert-Debré, Paris, France.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lecendreux
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*