Do you have trouble getting a restful slumber at night? Sleeping medicines can help you sleep better and fall asleep faster. However, there are some caveats to keep in mind when it comes to sleeping pills.

In this article, you will get a quick overview of medicines that help you sleep. We will explore various types of sleeping pills, learn about general safety and usage rules, and explore some alternative options.

If you’d like to experience a restful, deep sleep, keep reading!

How to use sleeping pills?

Sleeping meds, or hypnotics, come in many forms and shapes. One can choose from OTC, prescription, and natural sleep aids, each with its pros and cons.

Some sleep medicines can ensure you stay asleep during the night, while others only help you fall asleep easier.

These drugs can bring relief to people with various sleep disorders, such as insomnia, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, and more. Other conditions, like depression, anxiety disorders, and general stress, can also cause sleeplessness, so doctors might recommend sleeping aids to treat these in some cases.

One thing to keep in mind when it comes to sleeping pills is that they are never a long-term solution. Most sleeping pills are meant for short-term use. They can help with sleep deprivation or provide quick relief when most needed, but they are not designed to cure the underlying conditions causing sleeplessness.

Before you start taking sleeping meds, there are some safety rules that you should follow.

Now that you have a general understanding of sleeping pills, let’s take a look at the various options you can choose from.

Over-the-Counter sleeping pills

When it comes to sleeping pills, most people’s first choice is over-the-counter sleep medicines. These drugs are freely available to anyone without a prescription, and they can provide some relief for insomnia and other sleep issues.

While there are many different OTC sleeping pills available, almost all of them use one of two kinds of antihistamines as the active ingredient.

  • Diphenhydramine – This FDA-approved antihistamine is a common ingredient in OTC sleeping pills and painkillers. Sometimes, it might be recommended to treat short-term sleeplessness, but according to some studies, its effectiveness as a sleep aid is not the best. Higher doses or long-term usage of diphenhydramine can lead to severe medical problems.
  • Doxylamine – Another frequently used antihistamine in OTC sleep aids and allergy medications is doxylamine. It might relieve short-term sleeping problems, but long-term usage is not recommended because of the risk of side effects.

It’s worth noting that individuals often develop tolerance to antihistamines quickly, reducing their effectiveness over time. They also have numerous major interactions with other medications, so one should always read their documentation carefully. Side effects of antihistamines may include headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, depression, bedwetting, and epigastric pain, among others.

In addition to antihistamine-based OTC sleeping pills, there are some natural options, but more on these later.

Prescription sleep medicines

Prescription sleep medications are typically recommended for more severe cases, as they can offer relief when over-the-counter options may prove insufficient.

These medications may be preferred for their targeted approach, addressing specific sleep-related issues or disorders that require a more potent solution. Let’s take a look at some commonly prescribed sleep medicines:

  • Benzodiazepines – These drugs, such as Alprazolam and Diazepam, are central nervous system depressants that promote relaxation and drowsiness. They can be effective but only recommended for short-term use due to the risk of dependence.
  • Non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics – Medications like Zolpidem and Eszopiclone target specific receptors in the brain to induce sleep. They tend to have a shorter half-life than benzodiazepines, potentially reducing the risk of next-day drowsiness.
  • Melatonin receptor agonists – Ramelteon, Agomelatine, and Tasimelteon work by mimicking the action of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. These medications can help with circadian rhythm disruptions and make it easier to fall asleep. Unlike some other sleeping pills, melatonin receptor agonists don’t lead to dependency.
  • Orexin receptor antagonists – Orexin receptor antagonists like Suvorexant, Lemborexant, and Daridoexant are sleep medications that block the action of orexin, a neurotransmitter involved in wakefulness. It can promote sleep onset and maintenance.
  • Antidepressants – Some antidepressants, such as Trazodone, Mirtazapine, and Amitriptyline, have sedative effects and can help with insomnia when taken in smaller doses. However, their use as a sleeping aid is only recommended when insomnia is caused by depression.

When taking these prescription sleeping pills, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations closely and only use them under professional guidance. Misuse of prescription sleep medications can have serious consequences. Over-reliance or improper use may lead to dependence, developing tolerance, and increased risks of adverse effects.

Furthermore, one should always be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications before taking prescription sleep aids.

Potential side effects include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness that can get severe enough to cause loss of balance
  • Next-day drowsiness
  • Allergic reactions
  • Daytime sleepiness and narcoleptic episodes
  • Hallucinations
  • Memory problems
  • Depression, anxiety
  • Unusual behaviors

Mixing prescription sleeping pills with other medications, alcohol, and other substances can lead to severe medical consequences.

Natural sleeping aids

Natural sleeping aids are an alternative option for individuals seeking a less drastic approach to improving their sleep. While these remedies might be safer to use since they utilize natural ingredients, it’s essential to note that they are not always as potent as prescription alternatives.

Here’s a brief overview of some natural sleeping aids:

  • Melatonin supplements – Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Supplemental melatonin is available over the counter and is often used to address jet lag or support sleep onset. Many OTC sleep aids utilize this ingredient. However, its effectiveness can vary among individuals.
  • Valerian root – Valerian is a traditional herbal remedy for sleep disorders. It might promote relaxation and alleviate insomnia, but scientific evidence of its effectiveness has been inconclusive. It’s important to note that pills with valerian are considered dietary supplements, and they don’t have to undergo the same approval process as sleeping pills classified as drugs.
  • Chamomile – Chamomile tea is known for its calming properties and is often consumed before bedtime to induce relaxation and improve sleep quality. It may not be as potent as other options, but it might be able to bring relief for milder cases of insomnia.
  • Lavender – Lavender, whether in the form of essential oil or as an ingredient in herbal teas, is believed to have calming effects. Aromatherapy with lavender could create a relaxing sleep environment.
  • Passionflower – Passionflower is a traditional herb with calming effects. It is available in supplement form and may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.

While natural sleeping aids can be appealing due to typically having fewer side effects, it’s crucial to manage expectations. They might not be as effective as prescription options. Additionally, their mechanisms of action may not always be as well-understood as pharmaceutical alternatives. While they are usually safe to take on their own, they can interact with other medications, so you should never mix them with other forms of sleep aids. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating these remedies into a sleep management plan.

Other methods to improve sleep quality

While sleeping pills can offer a quick fix for sleep-related issues, they are not a perfect solution, and individuals may seek complementary methods to enhance their overall sleep quality. Sleeping pills are only a short-term remedy, and one should always address the root causes of poor sleep by cultivating healthier sleep habits.

Some alternative methods to improve sleep quality:

  • Stick to a consistent sleep schedule – Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate your body’s internal clock, promoting better sleep quality.
  • Create a good sleep environment – Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and not too hot. Consider blackout curtains, white noise machines, or earplugs to eliminate disturbances.
  • Stay active during the day – Regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improved sleep. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes of exercise each day.
  • Maintain a healthy diet – Eating healthy and maintaining a balanced diet is the number one thing you can do for your health. It decreases your risk of developing certain conditions and diseases that might affect your sleep negatively. Certain foods can also promote better sleep. Consider incorporating these into your diet for better sleep.
  • Try our non-invasive REM sleep patches – These patches work with innovative vibrotactile technology that sends signals directly to your brain without any side effects. Tell your brain that it’s finally time to get some well-deserved rest and improve your sleep quality in a safe and easy way.

Remember, maintaining healthy sleep habits is often more beneficial than relying on medications. It comes with no side effects and contributes to overall well-being. While sleeping pills may have their place, incorporating these lifestyle changes can provide lasting improvements to your sleep quality.

Treating underlying sleep disorders

While sleeping pills can offer immediate relief to sleeplessness, it’s crucial to work with your healthcare provider to identify and address the underlying causes of your sleep issues. Sleeping pills only tackle the symptoms and may not provide a long-term solution.

Common sleep disorders to look out for:

While sleeping pills play a role in managing sleep problems, adopting healthy sleep habits and addressing underlying sleep disorders can offer sustained relief. By combining immediate solutions with long-term strategies, you can improve your overall sleep quality and well-being.