Ramelteon (brand name:Rozerem) is the only hypnotic medication approved by the FDA that is not a BzRA and does not work through the GABA system. Rather, ramelteon acts on melatonin receptors in the brain and helps reduce the alerting activity of some brain regions. Ramelteon is specifically labeled as being indicated for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty with sleep onset, but not for those with difficulty staying asleep. Because of the way it works in the brain, ramelteon has a low rate of side effects and is non-narcotic.

Learn about BzRA hypnotics.