Herbie Murray
Falling asleep on a plane can be challenging, and some people turn to sleeping pills to help them get through a long-haul flight. While sleeping pills can be effective, they may not be suitable for everyone, and it's important to consider the potential risks and side effects. Some common sleeping pills for flights include Ambien, Rozerem, antihistamines like Benadryl, and natural supplements like melatonin and valerian root. It's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new medication, especially when considering the use of sleeping pills on a plane.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Should you take sleeping pills on a plane? | It depends on the situation. |
| Sleeping pills can help with | Long-haul flights, jet lag, and adjusting to a new time zone. |
| Sleeping pill alternatives | Noise-canceling headphones, a familiar scent, a comfortable outfit, a window seat, a travel pillow, earplugs, a familiar blanket, melatonin, antihistamines, motion sickness pills, and over-the-counter pills. |
| Sleeping pill side effects | Sleepwalking, amnesia, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, headaches, loss of appetite, grogginess, and irritation. |
| Sleeping pill dangers | Serious injuries and death. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping pill side effects
Sleeping pills can have several side effects, and it is important to understand the risks before taking them. Firstly, it is crucial to consult a doctor before taking any sleeping medication, especially when considering taking them on a plane. A doctor can advise on potential side effects and risks based on individual health conditions.
Some common side effects of sleeping pills include drowsiness, which may extend into the following day, and confusion and memory problems. These side effects can be particularly dangerous for older adults, increasing the risk of falls and accidents. Additionally, sleeping pills can cause dry mouth, constipation, and difficulty urinating.
More serious side effects include parasomnias, which are complex sleep behaviours that occur while asleep and without conscious control. Parasomnias can include sleepwalking, sleep-driving, sleep-eating, making phone calls, or even having sex while in a sleep state. These incidents can be dangerous and unpredictable, as they may occur after the first dose or at any time during treatment, even at low doses.
Sleeping pills can also interfere with normal breathing and are not recommended for individuals with certain chronic lung problems such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
It is worth noting that the side effects of sleeping pills can vary depending on the specific medication and individual factors. Some medications, such as Ambien, are more potent and may cause more severe side effects like retroactive amnesia and sleepwalking. Other options, like Rozerem, have fewer side effects and a shorter half-life, meaning they won't linger in the system for as long.
Overall, while sleeping pills can be helpful for short-term relief from sleeplessness, they should be used cautiously and only after consulting a doctor to ensure safe and effective use.
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Natural alternatives
If you're looking for natural alternatives to sleeping pills when travelling by plane, there are a few options you can consider:
- Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone that your brain naturally releases when it's tired to trigger sleepiness. It is available in pill form and can help you fall asleep more easily, especially when dealing with jet lag. According to a 2002 UK study, melatonin decreases jet lag, especially when travelling across five or more time zones. It is recommended to start taking melatonin a few days before your trip, about four to six hours before your bedtime, so that you’re ready to sleep 30 minutes to an hour earlier than usual.
- Antihistamines: Antihistamines like diphenhydramine, which is found in common sleep and allergy medicines like Benadryl, ZzzQuil, Aleve PM, or Tylenol PM, can cause sleepiness as a side effect. While antihistamines can help you fall asleep, they may leave you feeling groggy and dehydrated when you wake up. It is generally recommended to only use antihistamines when you really need them and to avoid overusing them.
- Valerian Root: Valerian root is a potent herbal supplement that can induce strong sedation and calm anxiety. It is sometimes referred to as "nature's Xanax" or "nature's Valium". Valerian root can make you feel sleepy and relaxed within about 30 minutes, without the same after-effects of drowsiness that other sleeping pills may cause.
- CBD: While CBD has not been fully proven to aid sleep, it can help ease anxiety, which may be a factor contributing to your difficulty sleeping on an airplane. CBD sleep aids are often mixed with melatonin to help you relax and sleep. Hemp-derived CBD oils with low THC levels are legal to fly with or take across state borders in the US.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any sleep aids or supplements, especially if you have unique health conditions or a specific medical history. Additionally, consider the length of your flight and the duration of action of the medication or supplement you choose.
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Prescription vs over-the-counter
Prescription sleeping pills are generally more powerful than over-the-counter alternatives. For example, Ambien, a prescription-only medication, works as a sedative-hypnotic drug that slows brain activity to make you feel very sleepy. It is considered the most powerful option for sleeping pills on flights. However, it can cause side effects such as retroactive amnesia and sleepwalking, which can be dangerous in an aircraft setting. Rozerem (ramelteon) is another prescription option that is not as strong as Ambien but still effectively regulates your sleep-wake cycle to help your body adjust to a new time zone.
On the other hand, over-the-counter medications are more easily accessible and may be purchased at drugstores or pharmacies. Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine found in Benadryl, can help induce sleep and adjust your circadian clock, reducing the effects of jet lag. However, it may cause side effects such as grogginess, dehydration, and dry mouth upon waking. Melatonin is another over-the-counter option that is considered a safe and natural supplement that can be taken a few days before your trip to help you fall asleep more easily at your destination. It has minimal side effects and effectively reduces jet lag.
While prescription sleeping pills may be effective for long-haul flights, they come with a higher risk of side effects and should be used with caution. Over-the-counter alternatives are more easily accessible and may be sufficient for some travellers, but they can still cause grogginess and dehydration. It is important to consider the length of the flight and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate option for your specific needs.
Additionally, it is crucial to avoid mixing any sleep medication with alcohol, as this can lead to dangerous oversedation and unpredictable behaviour. Testing any new medication at home before your trip is also recommended, as it allows you to understand how it affects your body and helps you prepare for any potential side effects.
Overall, while both prescription and over-the-counter sleeping pills can aid sleep during long flights, they should be used judiciously and only after careful consideration of the benefits and risks.
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Length of flight
The length of your flight is an important factor when considering taking a sleeping pill. For instance, a sleeping pill may not be necessary for a short flight, and you may be better off trying natural methods to fall asleep, such as noise-cancelling headphones.
If you're taking a long-haul flight, you might want to consider a sleeping pill to help you get through it. However, it's important to note that sleeping pills can leave you feeling groggy, and if your flight is 10 hours or less, you might still feel their effects when you land. In this case, a short-acting medication might be a better option. Xanax, for example, is a short-acting benzodiazepine that can help with anxiety and sleep.
It's also worth noting that you should always try any sleeping medication at home first before taking it on a plane, as you don't want to be caught unaware by any unexpected side effects. Side effects can include dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, headaches, and loss of appetite.
Additionally, if you're taking a shorter flight, you might not have enough time to get a full night's sleep. A flight of six hours, for instance, might only leave you with four hours of sleep time, once you factor in meal services and people moving around the plane. In this case, you might be better off trying to sleep naturally, rather than relying on sleeping pills.
Overall, while sleeping pills can be helpful for long-haul flights, it's important to consider the length of your flight and choose the appropriate type of medication, always being mindful of potential side effects.
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Seat selection
If you're considering taking sleeping pills on a plane, it's important to keep in mind that they are not a fool-proof or entirely safe option. While they can help you get some rest on a long-haul flight, there are certain factors you should consider to ensure your safety and comfort.
Firstly, consult your doctor before taking any sleeping medication on a plane. Discuss the risks and benefits, and make sure you know how your body tolerates the medication. It's important to give it a test run at home before your flight to understand how it affects you. Additionally, avoid combining sleeping pills with alcohol, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Now, onto seat selection. When it comes to getting a good night's rest on a plane, your seat choice can make a significant difference. Here are some tips to consider:
- Window Seat: Opting for a window seat can provide you with a surface to lean on and reduce interruptions. It also allows for better sleeping positions, especially if you plan to rest your head against the window or the wall.
- Comfortable Clothing: Choose comfortable and loose-fitting clothing that won't restrict your movement or make you feel too warm. Consider dressing in layers so you can adjust your clothing according to the temperature of the plane.
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Invest in a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones to block out the surrounding noise and create a quieter environment conducive to sleep.
- Eye Mask: Bring an eye mask or a sleep mask to block out light and movement. This can help you create a darker and more relaxing environment, especially if you're trying to sleep during the day or when the cabin lights are on.
- Neck Pillow: Consider bringing a neck pillow or travel pillow to provide support for your head and neck. This can make a significant difference in your comfort and help you maintain a more stable sleeping position.
- Blanket: Bring a light blanket or request one from the flight attendants. It can help keep you warm and comfortable during your rest.
- In-Flight Entertainment: Utilize the in-flight entertainment system to play calming music or white noise to create a soothing atmosphere. Alternatively, you can bring your own music and listen through your headphones.
- Seat Recline: If possible, choose a seat that offers a greater recline. This can provide you with a few extra inches of space and make it easier to rest your head and body.
- Legroom: If you're taller or simply want more space to stretch your legs, consider selecting a seat with extra legroom. This can make a significant difference in your comfort during a long flight.
- Aisle Seat: While the window seat is ideal for leaning, if you anticipate needing to use the restroom frequently, an aisle seat may be preferable. It provides easier access without disturbing your seatmates.
Remember, it's important to be considerate of your fellow passengers and respect their space and comfort as well. Additionally, keep yourself hydrated, especially if you're taking medication, as the dry air in the plane can dehydrate you.
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Frequently asked questions
While sleeping pills can be helpful for long-haul flights, it is not advisable to take them on every flight. It is recommended that you try other methods to fall asleep, such as noise-cancelling headphones, earplugs, or a familiar scent.
Melatonin is a natural sleep aid that can help you fall asleep on a plane. Your body naturally produces melatonin, so taking a supplement can help you get drowsy faster. It is recommended to take melatonin a few days before your trip to help adjust your body clock to the new time zone.
Yes, there are over-the-counter sleeping pills that can be taken on a plane. Antihistamines like Benadryl, Advil PM, and ZzzQuil can make you drowsy and help you fall asleep. However, they may come with side effects like dizziness, dry mouth, and next-day grogginess. Another option is Doxylamine, found in Unisom sleep tablets and NyQuil cold medicine.
Yes, prescription sleeping pills like Ambien and Rozerem (ramelteon) can be taken on a plane. However, these pills can have more serious side effects, such as sleepwalking and amnesia. It is important to consult your doctor before taking any prescription sleeping medication on a plane.
