Gina Johnson
There are a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) sleeping pills available to help with insomnia and other sleep issues. The most common ingredients in OTC sleep aids are diphenhydramine hydrochloride and doxylamine succinate, which are sedating antihistamines that help make you sleepy by decreasing histamine levels in your brain. Other OTC sleep aids include melatonin, valerian root, and CBD. While these sleep aids can be effective, they may also have side effects such as daytime grogginess, blurred vision, and constipation. It is important to consult with a doctor before taking any sleep medication to understand the options, benefits, risks, and potential side effects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Diphenhydramine, Doxylamine Succinate, Melatonin, Valerian, CBD |
| Side Effects | Grogginess, Hangover Effect, Blurred Vision, Confusion, Constipation, Dry Mouth, Trouble Urinating, Headache, Dizziness, Nausea, Drowsiness |
| Usage Recommendations | Short-term use only, Occasional use, Consult a doctor |
| Suitability | Not suitable for pregnant/nursing women, Not suitable for children under 3 |
| Brand Names | Sleep Eze, Sominex, Nytol, Tylenol PM, Unisom SleepGels, Kirkland Sleep Aid, Unisom SleepTabs |
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What You'll Learn
- OTC sleep medications should only be used short-term, as extended use can worsen insomnia
- Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle
- Doxylamine is one of the strongest OTC sleep aids and is an antihistamine
- Valerian is an herbal supplement that slows down the nervous system
- Side effects of antihistamines include blurred vision, confusion, and constipation
OTC sleep medications should only be used short-term, as extended use can worsen insomnia
Over-the-counter (OTC) sleep medications are easily accessible and can be purchased without a prescription. However, it is recommended that they are used sparingly and only for the short term. This is because extended use can worsen insomnia, a phenomenon known as rebound insomnia. When taken night after night, the body can become dependent on these medications, and when you stop taking them, your insomnia may return worse than before.
OTC sleep medications rely on the sedating effects of antihistamines to facilitate sleep. The most common ingredients in OTC sleep aids are diphenhydramine hydrochloride and doxylamine succinate. Diphenhydramine is the active ingredient in Sleep Eze, Sominex, Nytol, Tylenol PM, and Unisom SleepGels. It is eliminated quickly from the body, and most individuals don’t experience any lingering grogginess from the medicine the next day. Tolerance to this particular antihistamine builds up quickly, and it loses its effectiveness as a sleep aid after just a few nights of repeated use. Doxylamine succinate, on the other hand, is more sedating than diphenhydramine and is longer-acting. It will help the individual stay asleep longer but may have a "hangover" effect the next day. Doxylamine is the active ingredient in Kirkland Sleep Aid and Unisom SleepTabs. Unlike diphenhydramine, most people don't develop a tolerance to doxylamine's sedating effects.
It is important to note that OTC sleep aids are not regulated as strictly as prescription medications, and there is limited information about their safety and potential side effects. They can cause next-day drowsiness, nausea, headaches, blurred vision, confusion, and constipation. Additionally, OTC sleep medications may interact negatively with other medications, so it is crucial to consult a doctor before using them.
While OTC sleep aids can provide short-term relief, they are not a cure for insomnia. The most effective and safest way to treat insomnia is with good sleep habits and cognitive behavioural therapy. If you are experiencing sleep troubles that last more than a week, consult your doctor to identify any underlying problems and determine the best course of treatment.
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Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle
Melatonin supplements are available over the counter and are a popular choice for those struggling with sleep. They are particularly effective for people with circadian rhythm sleep disorders, helping them fall asleep or adjust to new time zones. However, melatonin supplements are not a cure-all for sleep difficulties. It is important to consult a doctor before taking melatonin, especially for long-term use.
The body's natural melatonin levels can vary depending on age and sex. Research indicates that as people age, they produce less melatonin. Additionally, individuals with certain sleep disorders may have lower levels of melatonin, impacting their ability to fall asleep.
Supplemental melatonin can benefit those with sleep disorders that affect their circadian rhythms. It may also be useful for individuals with Non-24-hour sleep-wake rhythm disorder (N24SWD), which is common in blind people. However, it is important to be cautious about the dosage and duration of melatonin intake, as excessive synthetic melatonin can lead to health risks.
While melatonin is a natural hormone, exogenous melatonin is a synthetic version that has gained popularity as a sleep aid. It is important to understand how melatonin works and when to consult a doctor before taking melatonin supplements.
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Doxylamine is one of the strongest OTC sleep aids and is an antihistamine
Doxylamine succinate is one of the most sedating antihistamines available over the counter. It is stronger than diphenhydramine, the other common antihistamine found in OTC sleep aids. Doxylamine succinate is the active ingredient in Kirkland Sleep Aid (Costco) and Unisom SleepTabs. A single dose causes rapid and marked drowsiness in most people.
Doxylamine succinate is eliminated from the body more slowly than diphenhydramine hydrochloride, so it may cause a "hangover" effect the next day. However, unlike diphenhydramine, most people do not develop a tolerance to the sedating effects of doxylamine succinate, and it will help the individual stay asleep longer.
Doxylamine succinate is also available in generic form. It is meant to treat short-term sleep problems and should not be used by older people. It is not recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and patients should consult a doctor before use as OTC sleep medications may interact negatively with other medications.
OTC sleep medications should only be used on a short-term basis, as extended use can exacerbate insomnia. A range of practices can help encourage sleep naturally, including regular exercise, avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, maintaining a sleep schedule, and keeping the bedroom dark, quiet, and slightly cool.
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Valerian is an herbal supplement that slows down the nervous system
Over-the-counter (OTC) sleeping pills are medications that can be purchased without a prescription. Popular OTC sleep aids include diphenhydramine hydrochloride and doxylamine succinate. However, these medications should only be used in the short term as extended use can exacerbate insomnia. Moreover, OTC sleep aids can cause a "'hangover effect," resulting in feelings of grogginess and fatigue the next day.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is an herbal supplement that has been used to treat sleep disorders, particularly insomnia. It is derived from the roots, rhizomes, and stolons of the valerian plant, a herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. Valerian has been used as a sedative since ancient times, earning the nickname "nature's Valium."
Valerian is believed to slow down the central nervous system. Certain compounds in valerian, such as valerenic acid and valerenol, can act on GABA receptors in the body. GABA is a chemical messenger that regulates nerve impulses and plays a crucial role in sleep regulation. By increasing the availability of GABA in the central nervous system, valerian exerts sedative effects, promoting relaxation and improved sleep quality.
Research supports the use of valerian as a sleep aid. Studies have shown that taking valerian root extract daily can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and enhance sleep quality. For example, a 2021 study found that participants who took 530 mg of valerian root one hour before bedtime for one month experienced higher-quality sleep compared to those taking a placebo.
It is important to note that while valerian is a natural supplement, it may interact with other medications. Individuals should consult a doctor or healthcare professional before taking valerian, especially if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other substances that cause drowsiness.
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Side effects of antihistamines include blurred vision, confusion, and constipation
Over-the-counter (OTC) sleeping pills are widely available and can be a short-term solution for those experiencing sleep problems. However, it is important to note that these pills are not a substitute for good sleep hygiene and lifestyle adjustments, such as regular exercise, avoiding stimulants, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.
When considering OTC sleeping pills, it is essential to be aware of their potential side effects. Antihistamines, which are commonly found in OTC sleep aids, can cause various side effects, including blurred or double vision, confusion, and constipation. While these side effects may vary in severity, they can significantly impact an individual's daily functioning and well-being.
Blurred vision, one of the most commonly reported side effects of antihistamines, can be mild and temporary, resolving once the medication is discontinued. However, in some cases, blurred vision may persist or be accompanied by severe eye pain and halos around bright lights, indicating a more serious condition called acute angle-closure glaucoma. This condition can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated, emphasizing the importance of seeking prompt medical attention for ongoing or concerning symptoms.
Additionally, antihistamines can cause confusion, particularly in individuals over the age of 65. This side effect can be disorienting and impact an individual's ability to perform daily tasks. Moreover, constipation is another frequently reported gastrointestinal side effect of antihistamines. While it may not be as urgent as blurred vision or confusion, constipation can be uncomfortable and disrupt an individual's overall well-being.
It is important to remember that the side effects of antihistamines can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all of these symptoms. However, being informed about the potential risks associated with OTC sleeping pills empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their sleep aids and encourages them to consult healthcare professionals for personalized recommendations and advice.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping pills are medications that can be taken to help people fall asleep more quickly and get enough rest. They are available as both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
Doxylamine succinate is one of the most sedating antihistamines available over-the-counter. It is the active ingredient in Kirkland Sleep Aid and Unisom SleepTabs. Doxylamine succinate causes rapid and marked drowsiness in most individuals and helps them stay asleep longer. However, it may cause a "'hangover' effect the next day".
Diphenhydramine is another common sedating antihistamine found in OTC sleep aids such as Sleep Eze, Sominex, Nytol, Tylenol PM, and Unisom SleepGels. It is generally milder than doxylamine succinate and is less likely to cause a hangover effect the next day. However, tolerance to diphenhydramine can build up quickly.
Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the body to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin supplements are available over-the-counter and can be helpful for people who have trouble falling asleep, such as "night owls" or those with jet lag. Valerian is another natural supplement that acts on receptors in the brain to slow down the nervous system and make you drowsy. CBD/cannabidiol is also available over-the-counter and can help with sleep.
Yes, it is important to be aware of the risks and side effects associated with OTC sleeping pills. They can include daytime grogginess, blurred vision, confusion, constipation, dry mouth, and trouble urinating. Additionally, OTC sleep aids may interact with other medications or substances, so it is important to consult a doctor before taking them. They should only be used on a short-term basis as extended use can exacerbate insomnia and lead to dependency.
