Which Schedule IV controlled substance is known for inducing sleep and is often used in treating insomnia?

Temazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance commonly prescribed for the treatment of insomnia. As a benzodiazepine, it functions by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor in the brain, leading to increased sedation and relaxation. This makes it particularly effective for helping patients to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

In contrast, while clonazepam is also a benzodiazepine and can have sedative effects, it is primarily used for seizure disorders and panic disorders rather than insomnia. Xanax, another benzodiazepine, is primarily indicated for anxiety and panic disorders, making it less suitable as a first-line treatment for insomnia. Pentazocine, an opioid analgesic, is used primarily for pain management and does not have the same sedative properties or indication for insomnia.

Given its specific use and mechanism, temazepam stands out as the primary choice for treating insomnia among the Schedule IV substances listed.