Colin Snow
Sleeping pills are often prescribed as a short-term solution for sleep disorders like insomnia, jet lag, or temporary issues that cause sleeplessness. While they can be effective, they also come with a lengthy list of significant risks and side effects. One of the most concerning side effects is depressed breathing, which can be life-threatening for people with chronic lung conditions such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, sleeping pills can cause addiction and dependence, with many people underestimating their powerful grip and the dangers of abuse. Other side effects include dizziness, light-headedness, memory issues, and parasomnias like sleepwalking and sleep eating. Due to these potential risks, it's important to consult a doctor before taking sleeping pills and explore alternative treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Depressing the central nervous system | Yes, sleeping pills can depress the central nervous system and slow down breathing. |
| Side effects | Drowsiness, dizziness, light-headedness, memory issues, abnormal dreams, daytime sleepiness, confusion, parasomnias (sleepwalking, sleep talking, sleep eating, sleep driving), high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, depression, rebound insomnia, seizures, etc. |
| Addiction | Sleeping pills can be addictive and cause physical dependence. |
| Interactions | Sleeping pills can interact with other prescription drugs, particularly those that affect the central nervous system, and increase the effects of alcohol. |
| Risks | Sleeping pills have significant risks, including potentially life-threatening side effects and adverse outcomes. They are not recommended for long-term use and should be supplemented with behavioral and cognitive therapies. |
| Precautions | Sleeping pills should be taken only after consulting a doctor, especially for those with chronic lung conditions like asthma or COPD. |
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What You'll Learn
Risks and side effects
Sleeping pills can be a helpful short-term solution for those experiencing insomnia, jet lag, or high levels of stress. However, they are associated with a range of risks and side effects that users should be aware of.
Firstly, sleeping pills can interfere with normal breathing and can be dangerous for people with certain chronic lung problems such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Combining sleeping pills with alcohol can lead to slowed breathing and even death. Additionally, an overdose of certain sleeping pills, such as barbiturates, can be fatal.
Sleeping pills can also cause next-day sedation, dizziness, light-headedness, and memory issues. They depress the brain, impacting thinking and memory, and can lead to parasomnias such as sleepwalking, sleep talking, sleep eating, and sleep driving. The risk of parasomnias increases with dosage.
Sleeping pills have the potential to lead to misuse, abuse, and addiction, and users may experience withdrawal symptoms such as rebound insomnia, anxiety, and panic attacks when trying to quit. Other side effects include high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and depression.
It is important to consult a doctor before taking sleeping pills, especially for those with chronic lung conditions or other health issues, as the pills can interact with other medications and cause adverse effects.
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Addiction and withdrawal
Sleeping pills can be incredibly addictive, with roughly 38 million prescriptions for sleeping pills like Ambien filled between 2006 and 2011. They are easily accessed and often become a medication that people depend on without realizing it. Dependence can develop quickly, sometimes within just a few weeks, and can exhibit various behaviours, such as increasing one's dose without consulting a doctor, or craving the drug. Women, particularly older women, are more likely to become dependent on sleeping pills.
Sleeping pill addiction can be challenging to break because the user's body becomes reliant on the drug to function. Withdrawal symptoms can be intense and vary from individual to individual, influenced by factors such as the severity and length of addiction, age, gender, dosage, and duration of use. Symptoms can include trouble sleeping, restlessness, anxiety, shivering, dizziness, circulation problems, sweating, tremors, seizures, and sleep disturbances. Some symptoms can be life-threatening if not treated by a medical professional.
Withdrawal symptoms can occur when people suddenly stop using sleeping pills, and can begin within a few hours or weeks after quitting the drug. To avoid relapse, it is important to try to keep withdrawal symptoms to a minimum. The best way to manage sleeping pill addiction withdrawal symptoms is through medical detox, where doctors monitor the patient and address any potential health concerns. During detox, doctors usually taper the user off the pills gradually, rather than having them quit abruptly, to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Psychological or therapeutic support can also help with detox.
Sleeping pill detox does not have to be painful or dangerous, and a doctor can devise a treatment plan for the detoxification process. It is important to talk to a doctor before quitting sleeping pills, especially benzodiazepines, as some side effects of withdrawal can be life-threatening.
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Interactions with other drugs
Sleeping pills can interact with many types of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs, especially those that affect the central nervous system. It is important to consult a doctor before taking sleeping pills, as they may recommend a medical exam to determine the cause of sleep problems, such as depression, anxiety, or a sleep disorder. Additionally, a doctor can advise on potential interactions with other medications and recommend non-drug therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Sleeping pills should be used with caution, especially when combined with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants, as this can lead to slowed breathing and even death. Even a small amount of alcohol can enhance the sedation caused by sleeping pills, resulting in dangerous side effects. Similarly, grapefruit and grapefruit juice can negatively impact the effectiveness of certain sleeping pills, such as Halcion.
Prescription sleeping pills are generally stronger than OTC options and require a prescription from a healthcare provider. These pills are typically not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependence and addiction. Common prescription sleeping pills include Z-drugs, such as Zolpidem (Ambien) and Eszopiclone (Lunesta), which can cause side effects like next-day sedation, dizziness, and memory issues.
OTC sleep aids often contain antihistamines, which can cause drowsiness, or natural supplements like melatonin and valerian, which promote relaxation and sleep. While easily accessible, OTC sleep aids can still interfere with other medications or worsen certain health conditions, so it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking them.
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Natural alternatives
Sleeping pills can interfere with normal breathing and can be dangerous for people with certain chronic lung problems such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They can also interact with other medications, particularly those that affect your central nervous system, and even a small amount of alcohol can enhance the sedation caused by sleeping pills.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a natural hormone that tells your body when to sleep and wake. Many people take melatonin supplements to ease sleep issues like jet lag and trouble falling or staying asleep. Melatonin supplements are generally safe for healthy adults if taken for a short period, but they can reduce the effectiveness of some medications and cause side effects like headaches, dizziness, and nausea. It's recommended to try a dose of 1-3 milligrams 2 hours before bed.
Lavender
The scent of lavender has a calming effect, slowing your heart rate and lowering your blood pressure and skin temperature, which can help you relax and prepare for sleep. A study found that people who slept in a lavender-infused room experienced more restful deep sleep. You can add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your pillowcase or use an essential oil diffuser in your bedroom.
Valerian
Valerian is a perennial plant that has been used as a sleep aid for hundreds of years. It is believed to raise levels of GABA, a chemical in the brain that boosts relaxation. While the evidence for its effectiveness is mixed, valerian is considered safe for short-term use. It can be taken as a supplement (300-600 milligrams up to 2 hours before bed) or brewed from the dried root.
Cannabinoids (CBD and THC)
Cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-tetra-hydrocannabinol (THC), are compounds derived from the cannabis plant. They have been shown to help some people fall asleep, stay asleep, and experience higher-quality sleep. CBD, in particular, has been found to reduce anxiety and improve sleep within a month of use. However, it's important to note that marijuana and THC-containing products can create dependence, and withdrawal from them may worsen sleep problems.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a natural mineral that has been linked to improved sleep quality. While more research is needed, some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation can help with insomnia and restless leg syndrome.
Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with your doctor or a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or sleep aid, especially if you have an existing health condition or are taking other medications.
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Who should avoid them
While sleeping pills can help with insomnia in some cases, they are not suitable for everyone. Sleeping pills can be addictive and lead to substance use disorder, especially when taken every night or for a long period of time. This is because the body grows accustomed to the drug, and higher doses are then required to achieve the same sleep-inducing effect.
People aged 65 and older should avoid sleeping pills, including over-the-counter drugs and "Z" drugs like eszopiclone (Lunesta), zaleplon (Sonata), and zolpidem (Ambien). This is because there may be safer, non-drug ways to improve sleep, and sleeping pills pose special risks for older adults.
Sleeping pills are also not recommended for children, as there are no FDA-approved sleeping pills for children under 16. Additionally, these drugs have only been tested on adults, so the correct dosage for children is unknown.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also avoid sleeping pills, as the medication can be passed to the fetus or baby.
Anyone taking other medications should be cautious about taking sleeping pills, as they can interfere with other drugs and cause adverse effects. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking sleeping pills to ensure they are safe for you.
Furthermore, those with high blood pressure or liver problems should be cautious about taking sleeping pills, as these conditions may be affected by the medication.
It is worth noting that sleeping pills are intended for short-term use and should not be relied upon long-term. If you need help falling asleep, it is recommended to first try lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, reducing caffeine and sugar intake, avoiding eating close to bedtime, and drinking enough water. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can also be beneficial in improving sleep quality.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping pills are not dangerous when taken as advised by a medical professional. However, they can be addictive and have side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, light-headedness, and memory issues. They can also interfere with other medications, particularly those that affect your central nervous system.
Sleeping pills can depress your lungs and slow down your breathing, especially if you have a chronic lung condition such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They can also cause depressed breathing when mixed with other drugs, including alcohol.
There are many alternatives to sleeping pills, including natural remedies such as melatonin or valerian supplements. Other nondrug therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may also be effective in improving sleep.
