The NHL and NHLPA Study Ambien Use by Players
Ambien use for insomnia is prevalent among NHL players
When it came to problems associated with sleep, the NHL has had its wake-up call. The league, in accord with the NHL Players’ Association, instituted rules this past offseason related to getting enough rest as part of its new collective bargaining agreement. Among them: Players must receive at least four days off per month during the season. Previously, days off were at the coach’s discretion. Also, from the time a team’s plane lands after a flight, no practice can be started before at least nine hours has elapsed.
The NHL and NHLPA formed a joint committee to study the use of Ambien by league players, and will make recommendations for monitoring and controls based on its findings by June 30.
