Noctec (Chloral Hydrate) for Alzheimer's

Overview
Noctec is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for nocturnal sedation in ill, young, and elderly people. Noctec is also known by its drug name, Chloral hydrate. Noctec is sometimes prescribed to treat sleep problems in people with Alzheimer’s disease. Noctec may be considered in cases where non-drug approaches have failed to address these symptoms. Since the FDA has not approved Noctec specifically for use in people with Alzheimer’s, this usage may be considered “off-label.”

Noctec is a hypnotic, or sleeping pill, and a sedative. Noctec is an organic compound. Noctec is believed to work by slowing brain activity.

How do I take it?
Noctec is taken once daily at bedtime.

Noctec is available as a syrup.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Noctec lists common side effects including drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty waking up in the morning, headache, and abdominal pain.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Noctec can include mood changes, loss of balance, severe dizziness, sleep-walking, and slow or shallow breathing.