Colin Snow
Sleeping pills are typically prescribed by doctors or healthcare providers to treat insomnia and other sleep-related issues. Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than over-the-counter alternatives and are generally recommended for short-term use due to the risk of dependence and addiction. Doctors may prescribe various medications, including antidepressants, antianxiety drugs, and anti-Parkinsonian drugs, depending on the patient's specific sleep problems. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any sleeping pills to ensure safe usage and avoid potential side effects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prescriber | Doctor or healthcare provider |
| Prescription method | Online or in-person |
| Prescription type | Sleeping pills, sleep aids, or other medications |
| Drug types | Antidepressants, antianxiety medications, antinarcoleptics, antihistamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, anti-Parkinsonian drugs |
| Drug examples | Zolpidem, eszopiclone, mirtazepine, trazodone, quetiapine, methylphenidate, modafinil, pitolisant, sodium oxybate |
| Prescription duration | Short-term, typically a few weeks |
| Considerations | Side effects, drug dependence, interactions with other medications or substances, pregnancy, age, underlying conditions |
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What You'll Learn
Doctors that can prescribe sleeping pills
Sleeping pills can be prescribed by a licensed doctor, typically your primary healthcare provider. These can be prescribed online or in-person, but prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Doctors will consider your particular sleep problems and recommend the most appropriate medication.
Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than over-the-counter pills and are usually only recommended for short-term relief. This is because there is a risk of dependence and addiction, and they are not a cure for insomnia. Doctors will usually recommend other treatments first, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or changes to improve your sleep.
Some of the types of prescription sleeping pills that doctors can prescribe include:
- Antidepressants such as amitriptyline, trazodone, and quetiapine (Seroquel)
- Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and doxylamine
- Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Diastat, Valium), estazolam (Prosom), orazepam (Ativan), and temazepam (Restoril)
- Z-drugs such as zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta)
It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor before taking prescription sleeping pills and to follow their advice on dosage and how to take them.
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Sleeping pill side effects
Sleeping pills can cause a range of side effects, and healthcare providers do not recommend their long-term use. Sleeping pills can cause constipation, diarrhoea, muscle weakness, digestive problems, and worsen snoring and sleep apnea. They can also cause a hangover effect, with drowsiness, muddled thinking, dizziness, and balance problems the next day. This can negatively impact your ability to drive, work, or complete daily tasks.
Sleeping pills can also cause parasomnia, a disruptive sleep disorder where people may sleepwalk, eat, take medications, talk, or even drive while unaware of their actions. This can be dangerous, and people usually do not remember these actions.
Older adults are more susceptible to side effects, and drowsiness can last into the following day. Confusion and memory problems are also common side effects for older people, which can lead to accidents.
Sleeping pills can also interfere with normal breathing and are dangerous for people with certain chronic lung problems, such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
It is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking sleeping pills, especially when taking them with other medications, as they may cause serious side effects or affect other medications. They are also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding people, or children.
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Sleeping pill alternatives
A doctor or a healthcare provider can prescribe sleeping pills, but they are usually only recommended for short-term relief. Sleeping pills can have side effects and risks, including drug dependencies, and there is a risk of overdose if mixed with other sedatives or alcohol. Therefore, it is important to discuss with your doctor before taking any sleep medication.
Sleeping pills are not the only solution to sleep problems. Here are some alternatives:
- Over-the-counter remedies: These can include antihistamines, which block histamines that cause alertness. Common ingredients in antihistamines include diphenhydramine and doxylamine. However, it is important to note that over-the-counter medications are not approved for sleep purposes and should be used with caution, especially in children.
- Dietary supplements: Melatonin supplements, for example, can help promote sleep by helping melatonin levels rise. It is important to be aware of possible side effects, such as nausea, headaches, and daytime sleepiness.
- Non-drug treatments: Developing healthy sleep habits and making lifestyle changes can often make it easier to fall asleep. This can include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding stimulants before bed. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a type of counselling that can also help improve sleep.
- Other prescription drugs: Depending on the underlying cause of your sleep problems, your doctor may prescribe other types of medication, such as antidepressants, antianxiety medications, or antinarcoleptics to improve daytime wakefulness.
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Online prescriptions
During an online consultation, patients typically undergo an assessment of their medical history and symptoms, after which the doctor recommends suitable treatment options, which may include prescription sleep medications. These consultations offer a discreet and accessible way to seek help for sleep problems without having to visit a clinic or hospital.
It is important to note that online doctors cannot prescribe controlled substances for insomnia, such as Xanax, Ambien, Lunesta, Belsomra, Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, and lorazepam. However, they can prescribe other sleep aids, such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and non-controlled sleep medications. These prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion, taking into account the patient's individual needs and medical history.
The cost of online prescription sleep medications can vary, with some providers offering low-cost options starting at $16.66 per month, while others charge a $35 fee for the doctor consultation. These online services provide easy access to medical professionals who can help individuals struggling with sleep issues find relief and improve their sleep quality.
While online prescriptions for sleeping pills offer convenience and accessibility, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult a doctor before starting any new sleep medication. Sleeping pills can have side effects and interactions with other substances, so medical supervision is essential to ensure safe and effective use. Additionally, prescription sleeping pills are typically recommended for short-term use, as long-term dependence and addiction are potential risks.
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Controlled substances
Benzodiazepines, for instance, are a class of drugs often prescribed for insomnia and other sleep disorders. They are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) because of their risk for abuse, addiction, and dependence. Examples of benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), and temazepam (Restoril). While effective in treating sleep issues, benzodiazepines are typically recommended for short-term use due to the risks associated with prolonged use.
Nonbenzodiazepines, also known as "Z-drugs," are another class of prescription sleep aids that are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances. These drugs, including eszopiclone (Lunesta), zolpidem (Ambien), and zaleplon (Sonata), interact with GABA receptors in the brain and are generally approved for short-term use, except for eszopiclone, which can be used long-term.
Other controlled substances used as sleeping aids include suvorexant (Belsomra), lemborexant (Dayvigo), and daridorexant (Quviviq). These medications are also classified as Schedule IV controlled substances and have been FDA-approved for treating insomnia characterized by trouble falling and staying asleep. They work by blocking orexin receptors in the brain, which are involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
It is important to note that controlled substances are regulated due to their potential for misuse and negative health consequences. Sleeping pills, in particular, may have side effects and are not recommended for long-term use. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication, including over-the-counter sleep aids, to ensure safe and effective use.
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Frequently asked questions
A board-certified, licensed doctor can prescribe sleeping pills.
Yes, there are online services that offer prescription sleeping pills following an online consultation with a board-certified doctor.
Doctors can prescribe a range of sleeping pills, including antidepressants, antianxiety medications, and anti-Parkinsonian drugs. Some common prescription sleeping pills include Zolpidem (Ambien), Eszopiclone (Lunesta), Alprazolam (Xanax), and Clonazepam (Klonopin).
Yes, doctors cannot prescribe certain controlled substances, including Xanax, Ambien, Lunesta, Belsomra, Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, and Lorazepam.
Yes, prescription sleeping pills are associated with several risks and side effects. They are typically recommended for short-term use only as they can lead to dependence and addiction. Additionally, they may cause parasomnia, a disruptive sleep disorder where individuals may engage in dangerous behaviors while mostly asleep. Mixing sleeping pills with other sedatives or alcohol increases the risk of overdose.
