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Somnogenic Effects

Meaning

Somnogenic effects are the biological or pharmacological actions of a substance or intervention that actively promote or induce the onset and maintenance of sleep. These effects are mediated through the modulation of neurochemical pathways and regulatory centers that govern the sleep-wake cycle, such as the suprachiasmatic nucleus and the reticular activating system. In the context of hormonal health, somnogenic effects are often sought to counteract the sleep disturbances commonly associated with hormonal fluctuations, particularly those involving cortisol and progesterone. The clinical goal is to restore the natural, restorative sleep architecture for metabolic repair.