Like the name implies, sleeping pills can help you get some rest. Sleep problems like insomnia may use these drugs to aid them in falling asleep. These medications can aid you in staying asleep in the event that you wake up during the night.
What are the other names of sleeping pills?
Sleeping pills have various names:
- Hypnotics.
- Sedatives.
- Sleep aids.
- Sleep medicine.
- Tranquilizers.
What are the effects of sleeping pills?
There are a variety that sleep aids. Each one works in a different way. Certain sleep aids induce sleepiness, while other aids shut down the brain area which keeps you awake.
How effective are sleeping tablets?
Studies have shown that sleeping pills aren’t beneficial in getting a great sleep. People who take sleep aids fall asleep 8 to 20 minutes earlier than those who do not take medication. In the average time, they could receive an additional 35 minutes of restful sleep.
Typically sleep aids are used for short-term purposes. They may be beneficial in the event of a life-threatening stressor like a separation or loss of a family member can keep you awake.
Who could benefit from sleeping pills?
One in seven Americans suffers from chronic insomnia. Sleep issues become more frequent when you get older. Around one out of three individuals use some form of sleep medication.
What are the various types of prescription (OTC) sleep pills?
Adults can purchase OTC sleep pills in a pharmacy. OTC sleep aids typically include an antihistamine. This medication treats allergies, but can cause you to become drowsy.
Many people take melatonin and valerian supplements in order to improve their to sleep. Melatonin is the hormone your body naturally produces which promotes sleep. Valerian is a plant believed to aid relaxation and sleep.
While these sleep aids are readily available but you must consult your physician prior to taking these supplements. Sleep aids that are available over-the-counter (including supplements) could affect other medicines or cause health issues to worsen.
What are the various types of sleeping pills prescribed by a doctor?
The prescription sleeping pills are more effective than the over-the-counter versions. You will require the prescription of your doctor to purchase these pills.
The types of prescribed sleeping pills comprise:
- Antidepressants.
- Benzodiazepines.
- Z-drugs (Ambien(r) and Lunesta(r)).
What are the possible negative side negative effects associated with sleeping tablets?
About eight in 10 people suffer from an impact of hangovers during the day following the use of sleep medication. People feel tired, experience blurred thinking, and may experience imbalance or dizziness. These effects during the day can affect the ability of you to travel or work, attend school, and perform your daily chores.
Sleeping pills that are prescribed and over-the-counter (and supplements) may cause the following adverse consequences:
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Dry mouth.
- Headaches.
- Muscle weakening.
Gastric problems, such as gas, heartburn, nausea and stomach cramps.
What are the dangers or side effects of sleeping pills?
If you are taking sleeping pills all night long the body may become dependent on these medications. If you stop taking the medication the sleeplessness may return more severe than it was before. This is known as rebound insomnia.
If you’ve been taking sleep aids for an extended period consult your doctor about ways to end the use of sleep aids safely. It may take several months before you stop taking the medication.
Also, don’t take sleep supplements with other medications for sedation, or alcohol. It is possible to overdose.
What are the dangers or side effects of sleeping pills prescribed by a doctor?
Certain prescription sleep medications may cause parasomnia. This disorder of sleep that causes disruption may trigger dangerous behaviors even when you’re asleep. People who use Z-drugs specifically, may sleepwalk or eat or drink, speak or drive without realizing they’re doing these activities. It’s possible that you may look like you’re awake but your brain may not be fully awake. The majority of people don’t recall doing these activities when they awake.
Benzodiazepines are addictive and can result in the use of drugs. To reduce the chance, medical professionals will only recommend these sleep pills to use for short periods of time. It is more likely that you will receive an appointment for Z-drugs rather than.
Are sleeping pills safe during pregnancy?
Anything you take during nursing or pregnant passes on to your baby. Talk to your doctor before you take any over-the-counter sleep supplements or pills. If you suffer from insomnia that is severe your doctor may recommend a short-term sleeping aid.
Are sleeping pills suitable for children?
Parents may give over-the-counter antihistamine drugs to children in order to help them sleep. These medications aren’t suitable to be used for sleep. There’s a danger of taking too much for a child.
Don’t give your child any supplements such as the melatonin. There’s not any research regarding the safety of these supplements in children.
There are currently no prescribed sleep aids for children. Modifying a child’s sleeping habits is often the most effective method to increase sleep.
How can I get better sleep without taking sleeping pills?
The cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful tool to improve sleep and alleviating insomnia. Changes in the way you conduct yourself can help improve your sleep without the requirement for medication.
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Avoid eating large meals and drinking alcohol before going to bed.
Reduce the amount of caffeine you consume which includes chocolate, sodas, and coffee during the day and, especially, before bedtime.
Stop smoking.
Enjoy a relaxing playlist and a good read or even a meditation.
Turn off your electronics at least thirty minutes prior to going to bed.
Keep active throughout the day. Make sure to go outside when you can.
Stay on a schedule for sleep (same alarm time and bedtime) all through the week, even during weekends.
Make your bedroom an eerie, dark and cool haven.
When should I speak to my physician?
It is recommended to contact your physician If you’re taking sleep pills and have:
Chronic fatigue.
Memory issues or confusion.
Parasomnia symptoms.
Trouble focusing or finishing tasks such as driving.
Extreme stomach upset.
A note from the Cleveland Clinic
Watching the clock and shifting and turning isn’t a good way to sleep. But, you must consult your physician before attempting an over-the counter sleeping aid. A prescribed sleeping pill may be the better option. Most of the time, non-medicated treatments and changes in your behavior are all you require to get better sleep. Your physician will be able to determine what’s causing your insomnia and provide the most effective plan to ensure you sleep better.