Sleep aids before surgery may reduce postoperative opioid use

New research presented at the ANESTHESIOLOGY 2026 annual meeting suggests that improving sleep quality before surgery using melatonin or Ambien (zolpidem) may lead to lower pain levels and reduced opioid consumption.

A review of 16 studies involving more than 1,100 patients undergoing various procedures—including abdominal, orthopedic, and dental surgeries—found that better sleep prior to anesthesia is linked to decreased anxiety and inflammation. Melatonin was typically administered in doses ranging from 1 mg to 20 mg, while Ambien was used at a 10 mg dose.

Researchers noted that sleep deprivation can increase pain sensitivity, often leading clinicians to prescribe stronger analgesics, including opioids, following a procedure. By addressing sleep in the window immediately preceding surgery, patients may experience easier recoveries and a lower risk of long-term opioid dependency.