Is it safe to take a hypnotic drug for insomnia?

Usually yes: If you are basically health, and you take the medicine as prescribed, and don't combine it with other drugs or alcohol, or use one and then go out driving or using heavy equipment. Hypnotic drugs are usually most helpful short term, when there is a period of stress. If you need one long term you should get an evaluation for other problems - a sleep disorder or anxiety or depression.