For early morning insomnia, should i take something long-acting at bedtime every night or something short-acting when needed (about 50% of nights)?

Short As Needed: Even 2nd generation sleeping medications can become addicting. Best not to use when not needed so if neccessary of the 2 choices, a short acting only when needed 50% time is definitely the better route to take.

Drugs are not the: Best first-line solution and should be avoided for chronic use. Many rx "sleep" medications have been shown to disrupt normal brainwave activity with long-term use that can cause patients to experience drug-related sleep disruption. Detox w/ md. Exercise, yoga, meditation, massage, quiet mind activity w/ music, good diet & humor, watch sunrise/sunsets. Avoid stimulants, alcohol & nicotine.