Colin Snow
Sleeping pills are medications that can help treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. They are available over the counter (OTC) or by prescription, with the latter generally being stronger and potentially addictive. Doctors from various specializations, including psychiatry, may prescribe sleeping pills depending on individual circumstances. Sleeping pills should not be used long-term due to the risk of side effects and addiction, and natural alternatives are often recommended.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Availability | Over the counter (OTC), as natural supplements or by prescription |
| OTC suitability | Anyone age 18 and older |
| OTC examples | Antihistamines, melatonin, valerian supplements |
| Prescription strength | Stronger than over-the-counter ones |
| Prescription examples | Zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), estazolam (Prosom), doxepin (Silenor), suvorexant (Belsomra), trazodone (Desyrel), ramelteon (Rozerem), temazepam, quetiapine (Seroquel), olanzapine (Zyprexa), risperidone (Risperdal), alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, lorazepam |
| Side effects | Confusion, sleepiness during the day, parasomnia, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, long-term side effects such as depression, addiction and dependence |
| Risks | Interference with other medications, adverse health effects in the long run, misuse, addiction, dependence |
| Non-drug alternatives | Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping pill side effects
Sleeping pills can cause a range of side effects, and they are not recommended for long-term use. Approximately 8 out of 10 people experience a hangover effect the day after taking sleep medicine, with drowsiness, muddled thinking, dizziness, and balance problems. These daytime effects can negatively impact your ability to drive, work, or complete daily tasks.
Sleeping pills can also cause digestive problems, including constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, and nausea. They can worsen snoring and sleep apnea, and may cause muscle weakness. Some people may experience parasomnias, which are disruptive sleep disorders where people sleepwalk, eat, talk, or even drive while unaware of their actions. Other side effects include dry mouth, burning or tingling sensations in the limbs, and confusion or memory problems.
Older adults are more susceptible to these side effects, and the impact tends to be more severe. The drowsiness can last longer, increasing the risk of falls and accidents. There is also a risk of dependence and addiction, especially with prescription sleeping pills, and when you stop taking them, your insomnia may return worse than before (rebound insomnia). Sleeping pills can interfere with other medications, and there is a possibility of overdosing if mixed with other sedatives or alcohol.
Natural sleep aids, such as melatonin and valerian, are also available, but it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any sleep aids, as they can interfere with other medications or health conditions.
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Prescription vs. over-the-counter
Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC) or by prescription. Anyone over the age of 18 can buy over-the-counter sleep medications at drugstores or other retail locations without a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Over-the-counter sleep aids often contain an antihistamine, which treats allergies but can also cause drowsiness. Some people also take natural remedies like melatonin or valerian supplements to help them sleep. Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that promotes sleep, while valerian is an herb that supposedly aids relaxation and sleep. It is important to check with a healthcare provider before taking over-the-counter sleep aids or supplements, as they can interfere with other medications or worsen health conditions.
Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than over-the-counter ones and are recommended for short-term relief. They are not a cure for insomnia, and there is a risk of dependence and addiction. Benzodiazepines, for example, are a group of sleeping pills that are effective for short-term use (less than four weeks) to treat insomnia. However, they are controlled substances due to their potential for physical dependence, misuse, withdrawal, and addiction. Other prescription sleep aids include non-benzodiazepine hypnotic sedatives like Ambien (zolpidem) or Lunesta (eszopiclone), or melatonin receptor agonists such as Rozerem (ramelteon).
Doctors may prescribe sleeping pills for patients with insomnia or other sleep disorders. They may also suggest non-medical solutions such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or other non-drug therapies. It is important to consult a doctor before starting any new sleep medication, as they can interact with other substances or medications.
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Natural sleep aids
Sleeping pills are available over the counter, as natural supplements, or by prescription. However, prescription pills are stronger than over-the-counter ones and carry a risk of dependence and addiction. Doctors typically prescribe them for short-term relief from insomnia.
Other natural remedies for better sleep include drinking warm milk, chamomile tea, or tart cherry juice. While there is not much scientific proof that these drinks work, they have been traditionally believed to be associated with chemicals that simulate the effects of tryptophan on the brain. Similarly, magnesium and lavender are also said to promote sleep.
It is important to note that even natural sleep aids should not replace good sleeping habits. Getting a good amount of sleep is important for your health as it helps your body and brain function properly. Some good sleep habits include going dark by minimizing exposure to light from smartphones or other devices, and sleeping in layers to adjust your bedtime temperature as needed.
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Addiction and misuse
Sleeping pills are powerful sedatives that can help relieve short-term insomnia. However, they can also lead to dependence and addiction. Sleeping pill addiction can develop from various behaviours, including using sleeping pills for an extended period of time or taking a higher dose than recommended. The longer and the more one takes the drug, the more the brain becomes dependent on it. This can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop.
Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC), as natural supplements, or by prescription. Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than over-the-counter ones and carry a higher risk of addiction and misuse. However, it's important to note that even OTC sleep aids can lead to dependence and addiction, especially if taken in higher doses or for longer than recommended.
Some sleeping pills, such as zaleplon (Sonata), zolpidem (Ambien), and eszopiclone (Lunesta), are habit-forming and have a high risk of misuse and dependency. These drugs can induce relaxation and sleep by attaching to the GABA receptors in the brain. While they can be effective in the short term, they are not a cure for insomnia and should be used with caution.
Anyone can develop an addiction to sleeping pills, regardless of gender, age, race, or socioeconomic status. However, certain factors may contribute to a higher risk, such as a genetic predisposition, anxiety, or depression. Additionally, normalising the use of sleeping pills as a coping mechanism within one's social circle can also increase the risk of addiction.
Signs of sleeping pill addiction include continuing to use sleeping pills despite negative consequences, experiencing cravings and compulsive behaviours related to seeking and using sleeping pills, and abusing the pills to feel a high or sense of euphoria. If you or someone you know is struggling with sleeping pill addiction, seeking professional help is essential to address the underlying issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
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Non-drug therapies
Doctors may prescribe sleeping pills to treat sleep problems and insomnia. However, sleeping pills are typically used for a short period and are most effective when combined with good sleep practices and behavioural treatments.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the American College of Physicians recommend CBT-I as the first-line treatment for chronic insomnia in adults. Research has shown significant changes in sleep patterns for individuals with psychiatric disorders who underwent CBT-I, even for those who had not responded to pharmacological treatments.
Additionally, alternative non-drug therapies include natural sleep aids such as melatonin or valerian root supplements. However, it is important to note that even natural sleep aids can cause side effects, and it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking any sleep aids.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC) and by prescription. Prescription sleeping pills are generally stronger than over-the-counter ones.
Examples of prescription sleeping pills include eszopiclone (Lunesta), estazolam (Prosom), doxepin (Silenor), and temazepam.
Over-the-counter sleeping pills often contain antihistamines, which can cause drowsiness. Some people also take natural supplements like melatonin or valerian to help them sleep.
You should consult a doctor or healthcare provider before taking any sleeping pills, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. Sleeping pills can have side effects and may interact with other medications or health conditions.
