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Taking melatonin or Ambien (zolpidem) before surgery may be associated with less pain and a smoother recovery afterward, according to new research.

Research presented at the ANESTHESIOLOGY 2026 annual meeting in San Diego on Oct. 18 found that improving sleep before surgery with one of these two sleep aids could ease anxiety while reducing postsurgical pain and opioid use.

The researchers analyzed 16 studies of patients who underwent abdominal, gynecologic, orthopedic, urologic, dental and other surgical procedures between 2000 and 2025.

THIS ONE QUESTION MAY REVEAL WHETHER YOUR BODY IS GETTING THE REST IT NEEDS, STUDY FINDS

This amounted to more than 1,100 patients, according to a press release from the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

Melatonin may be a better option over traditional sedatives for older adults who may be more likely to experience confusion after surgery, researchers said.…