How many otc sleeping pills are safe to take

Nonbenzodiazepines — such as zolpidem Ambien and eszopiclone Lunesta — also work on GABA, but they leave the body faster and have fewer side effects, allowing for regular waking and daytime functioning the next day. However, they still increase the risk for sleepwalking and daytime sleepiness, which can lead to falls and injury. Melatonin-receptor agonists such as ramelteon Rozerem target melatonin receptors in the brain. They leave the body quickly and are not thought to be habit forming.

These medications are meant for short-term use only, under the direction of your doctor. But medications are just one option to treat insomnia. Behavioral therapy, which involves looking at your sleep habits and ways you think about sleep and routines, is equally effective," says sleep expert Dr.

Even though supplements are widely taken to help people sleep, we don't actually know if they work. Many supplements can have minor side effects, such as headache, dizziness, or nausea. Or they may increase the effect of alcohol or other drugs you're taking, such as other sleep medications.

Perhaps the biggest concern is that the FDA doesn't regulate supplements, so there's no way to know if a pill contains what its manufacturer claims.

If you want to take an over-the-counter sleep drug or a dietary supplement, speak with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure it won't interact with any medications you're taking. If you're having more than an occasional night of sleeplessness, it may be time to figure out what's causing the trouble. Sleep problems are often caused by many things, not just one thing that can be fixed with a pill. As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content.

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Why is topical vitamin C important for skin health? The American Academy of Sleep Medicine offers the following advice for people taking sleeping pills:. Sedating medications, including antihistamines, can leave people feeling tired, drowsy, or groggy during the following day.

In older adults, using these pills can cause memory problems. In rare cases, they can cause people to perform actions, including driving, walking, eating, or making phone calls, while asleep. This is commonly known as sleepwalking. People taking sedating antihistamines should follow the directions on the medication or the advice of a medical professional.

When to take valerian depends on the type a person uses. Generally, people can take valerian an hour before going to bed. People should follow the recommended dosage for supplements. Learn more about valerian dosage here. People with insomnia may benefit from one medication, while those with jet lag experience the best results from another. People may want to start with a low-dose melatonin product or a valerian root supplement.

If they do not experience improved sleep, they can look into a higher dosage. The best way to determine the most suitable sleeping pill or dosage is to consult with a doctor for personalized recommendations. Learn more about ways to fall asleep naturally here. Sleeping aids can help a person get much-needed rest, but most are only suitable for short-term use. Only take sleeping pills when insomnia is more severe than occasional sleeplessness.

Melatonin is a hormone that the body produces when it gets dark to signal that it is time to go to sleep. Melatonin supplements can help people with…. People who have difficulty falling or staying asleep may wish to try using sleep aids. Various over-the-counter, prescription, and natural sleep aids…. Natural sleeping pills include ingredients such as melatonin and lavender, but there has been limited research into these pills.

Learn more here. Read this article to learn about the causes and treatment options available. What are the best non-prescription sleeping pills? Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. Who should take sleeping pills? Share on Pinterest. Sleeping pills and supplements. How to use sleeping pills safely. Side effects and risks. Frequently Asked Questions. Uncategorized Cat 1 sleepsupplements. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery?

In addition, some over-the-counter sleep aids can leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect. Medication interactions are possible as well, and much remains unknown about the safety and effectiveness of over-the-counter sleep aids. Over-the-counter sleep aids are widely available.

Common choices and the potential side effects include:. Store brands containing the same active ingredients as brand-name sleep aids are commonly available, too. Store brands have the same risks and benefits as their brand-name counterparts, often at a more reasonable cost. Everyone benefits from a good night's sleep. If you continue to have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor.

In addition to lifestyle changes, he or she might recommend behavior therapy to help you learn new sleep habits and ways to make your sleeping environment more conducive to sleep.

In some cases, short-term use of prescription sleep aids might be recommended as well. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.

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