The efficacy and clinical effects of flunitrazepam (1 mg) and nitrazepam (5 mg) as somnifacients were studied in 37 psychogeriatric inpatients. Each drug was administered in a double-blind manner to randomized groups of patients for 14 nights. Compared with placebo, both benzodiazepines proved to be effective in inducing and maintaining sleep. Although both drugs were well tolerated, insomnia resulted when each was withdrawn.