Ashwin Lewis
Sleeping pills are medications that can help people fall asleep, stay asleep, or both. They are available over the counter (OTC) or by prescription. OTC sleep aids often contain antihistamines, which can make you drowsy, while prescription sleeping pills are stronger and often contain tranquilizers. Prescription sleeping pills are generally recommended for short-term relief of insomnia or other sleep disorders and should be used cautiously due to the risk of side effects, misuse, and dependency. Some common prescription sleeping pills include Rozerem, Silenor, and Zolpidem, while OTC options include melatonin and valerian supplements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Availability | Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC) or by prescription. |
| OTC Sleeping Pills | Often contain antihistamines, which can make you drowsy. |
| Prescription Sleeping Pills | Stronger than OTC pills and contain tranquilizers. |
| Prescription Types | Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines (Benzos), Non-Benzodiazepine (Non-BZD) or Z-drugs, Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, Doxepin (Silenor), Ramelteon (Rozerem), Zolpidem, Ambien, Zopiclone, Suvorexant (Belsomra). |
| Prescription Use | Prescribed for short-term relief only due to the risk of dependence and addiction. |
| Side Effects | CNS depression, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, depression, constipation, difficulty urinating, dry mouth or throat, decreased sexual drive, weight gain, withdrawal symptoms. |
| Risks | Overdose, misuse, dependency, adverse long-term health effects, allergic reactions. |
| Precautions | Consult a doctor before taking any sleep medication, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding, or giving to children. |
| Alternatives | Non-drug treatments, behavioural changes, natural supplements like melatonin or valerian root. |
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What You'll Learn
- Sleeping pills are available over the counter or by prescription
- Prescription pills are stronger but carry a risk of dependence and addiction
- Antihistamines are a common over-the-counter sleeping pill
- Melatonin is a natural sleep supplement that may reduce self-harm risk in youth
- Doxepin (Silenor) and Ramelteon (Rozerem) are prescription medications that can help you fall and stay asleep
Sleeping pills are available over the counter or by prescription
Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than OTC ones. Prescription pills work in different ways. Benzodiazepines, for example, stimulate a chemical in the brain called GABA, leading to sedation, muscle relaxation, and reduced anxiety. Z-drugs, such as zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta), work by slowing down brain activity. Healthcare providers typically recommend against using prescription sleeping pills long-term because they are not a cure for insomnia and carry a risk of dependence and addiction. They are usually prescribed for short-term relief only.
Sleeping pills can cause various side effects, including constipation, diarrhea, and muscle weakness. Approximately 8 out of 10 people experience a "hangover effect" the day after taking sleep medicine, feeling drowsy and dizzy and having muddled thinking. These daytime effects can negatively impact daily activities, so caution is advised when taking sleep medicine.
While OTC sleep aids and supplements are easily accessible, it is recommended to check with a healthcare provider before taking them. Drugs in OTC sleep aids can interfere with other medications or worsen certain health conditions. Additionally, natural supplements like melatonin can be purchased without a prescription, but it is possible to overdose on them, so people should follow product instructions or consult a doctor about safe dosages.
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Prescription pills are stronger but carry a risk of dependence and addiction
Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC), as natural supplements, or by prescription. Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than over-the-counter ones, but they carry a risk of dependence and addiction. Providers do not typically recommend using prescription sleeping pills long-term because they are not a cure for insomnia and can lead to dependence and addiction. They may help in some cases, but providers will usually only prescribe them for short-term relief.
Prescription sleeping pills are medications containing tranquilizers to treat insomnia, restless sleep, or difficulty falling asleep. There are many different types of prescription sleeping pills, each with a unique chemical structure and pharmacological effect. Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are a powerful class of sleeping pills that help with sleep, anxiety, learning, and memory. These drugs raise levels of brain GABA neurotransmitters, causing sleepiness and allowing people to sleep better. This class of medications includes alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, and lorazepam, available in short- and long-acting forms.
Non-benzodiazepine (non-BZDs) or Z-drugs are fast-acting sleeping pills that take effect 30 minutes after intake and last up to 8 hours. They induce sleepiness, calm anxiety, and promote sound sleep without leaving you feeling groggy or lightheaded in the morning. This class of medications includes Zolpidem, Ambien, and Zopiclone. Melatonin is another option that is often prescribed to those who have trouble falling asleep, work late or in shifts, or are seniors struggling with sleep.
While prescription sleeping pills can be effective in treating sleep disorders, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with their use. In addition to the risk of dependence and addiction, these medications can also cause side effects such as central nervous system (CNS) depression, where brain activity slows down, and allergic reactions. They may also interact with other substances, including other medications, alcohol, and vitamin supplements. For these reasons, it is crucial to consult a doctor before starting any prescription sleep medication and to follow their recommendations for dosage and duration of use.
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Antihistamines are a common over-the-counter sleeping pill
Sleeping pills are medications that can help with sleep difficulties, which become more common as people age. Around 1 in 3 people aged 65 and above take some form of sleep medicine. Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC) or by prescription. Anyone over the age of 18 can buy OTC sleep medications without a prescription from a drugstore or other retail outlet.
Some parents give over-the-counter antihistamine medications to their children to help them sleep. However, these medicines are not approved for sleep purposes, and there is a risk of overdosing. Talk to a pediatrician or pediatric sleep specialist before giving OTC medications to children.
Natural remedies like melatonin and valerian supplements can also help with sleep. Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that promotes sleep. Valerian is an herb that purportedly aids relaxation and sleep. Valerian root comes in many forms, such as teas, liquids, and capsules, and may be suitable for those who do not want to take pills or medication. However, the safety profile of valerian root is unclear, and side effects may include headaches, dizziness, itchiness, and stomach problems.
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Melatonin is a natural sleep supplement that may reduce self-harm risk in youth
Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC), as natural supplements, or by prescription. OTC sleep aids often contain antihistamines, which can make you drowsy. Some people take natural sleep remedies like melatonin or valerian supplements to help them sleep. Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the brain to promote sleep and regulate sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythm.
Melatonin supplements may help adults with insomnia fall asleep faster, particularly those with delayed sleep phase syndrome. They can also be used to overcome jet lag or adjust one's sleep schedule. However, there are uncertainties about the effects of melatonin supplements on children, including the appropriate dosage, long-term effects, and potential risks to hormonal development.
In Sweden, melatonin is the most commonly prescribed drug for sleep disturbances in children and teenagers. A recent study analyzed data from 25,575 Swedish youths aged 6 to 18 who began melatonin treatment. The researchers found that melatonin use was associated with a 42% reduced risk of self-harm and a 41% reduced risk of poisoning. These effects were more pronounced in adolescent girls with depression and anxiety.
Dr. Kelly Johnson-Arbor, a medical toxicologist, suggests that treating sleep problems with melatonin may reduce the incidence of self-harm in youth. Sleep disturbances are common in young people with psychiatric disorders, and improving sleep quality may lead to enhanced emotional stability and behavioral control. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between melatonin and self-harm prevention in young people.
While melatonin is a natural sleep supplement that may show promise in reducing self-harm risk in youth, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any sleep aids or supplements, especially for children and adolescents.
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Doxepin (Silenor) and Ramelteon (Rozerem) are prescription medications that can help you fall and stay asleep
Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC) or by prescription. OTC sleep aids often contain antihistamines, which can make you drowsy. However, prescription sleeping pills are stronger than OTC ones. Providers may recommend prescription sleeping pills for short-term relief, but they are not a cure for insomnia and carry a risk of dependence and addiction.
Doxepin (Silenor) and Ramelteon (Rozerem) are prescription medications that can help with falling and staying asleep. Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant that can be used to treat insomnia in adults. Doctors may suggest people with insomnia use Silenor for up to 3 months. It is available in 3 and 6 mg doses, with the recommended dose depending on the patient's needs. It is not recommended for those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, people with glaucoma or urinary retention, and those under 18 years of age. Side effects may include central nervous system depression and unusual behaviors while not fully awake.
Ramelteon (Rozerem) is a melatonin antagonist, which promotes sleep by affecting melatonin receptors and positively impacting circadian rhythms. Unlike many other sleep aids, Rozerem is not a controlled substance and has a low risk of misuse or dependency. It is typically prescribed for longer-term use and comes in an 8 mg dose, not to be exceeded once daily. Side effects are uncommon but can include drowsiness and dizziness. It is also not suitable for people with severe liver problems or sleep apnea.
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Frequently asked questions
Zolpidem, Ambien, Zopiclone, Rozerem, and Belsomra.
Melatonin, valerian supplements, and antihistamines.
Prescription sleeping pills can have side effects such as central nervous system (CNS) depression, allergic reactions, and in some cases, the risk of misuse and dependency.
OTC sleeping pills can cause drowsiness. Melatonin supplements may be linked to a reduced risk of self-harm in youth.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take sleeping pills without consulting a doctor. People with neurological conditions should also seek expert advice before taking sleeping pills.
