SLEEPING PILLS

Sleeping pills are pils that helps treat insomnia by making you feel drowsy and relaxed.

So general we say sleeping pills help you catch some sleep. People who have sleep disorders like insomnia may take these medications to help them fall asleep. Sleeping medicines can also help you stay asleep if you’re prone to waking up in the middle of the night.

Sleeping pills go by many names:

Hypnotics.
Sedatives.
Sleep aids.
Sleep medicine.
Tranquilizers.

How do sleeping pills work?

There are various types of sleeping pills. Each works differently. Some sleeping pills cause drowsiness, while others silence the area of the brain that keeps you alert.

Are sleeping pills effective?

Studies show that sleeping pills aren’t that helpful in promoting a good night’s rest. Most people who take sleeping pills fall asleep about 10 to 20 minutes faster than those without medicine. On average, you might get an additional 35 minutes of shut eye.Other nondrug therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are better at improving sleep.Some people take melatonin or valerian supplements to help them sleep. Melatonin is a hormone in your body naturally produces that promotes sleep. Valerian is an herb that supposedly aids relaxation and sleep.

Difference between over-the- counter(O.T.C) pills and prescription sleeping pills (prescription sleeping pills are the ones prescribed to you by your doctor or health care provider)

OTC sleep aids often contain an antihistamine. This drug treats allergies, but it can also make you drowsy.

Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than over-the-counter ones. You need a prescription from your healthcare provider to get these pills.

Types of prescription sleeping pills include:

Antidepressants.

Benzodiazepines.

Z-drugs (Ambien® and Lunesta®).

What are the potential side effects of sleeping pills?

Approximately 7 out of 10 people experience a hangover effect the day after taking sleep medicine. most people experience dizziness or balance problems. These daytime effects can negatively impact your ability function properly during the day.

Over-the-counter and prescription sleeping pills (and supplements) can cause these side effects:

Constipation or diarrhea.

Dry mouth.

Headaches.

Muscle weakness.

Digestive problems, including gas, heartburn and nausea.

What are the risks or complications of continuous intake of  sleeping pills? 

When you take sleeping medicines night after night, your body may start to depend on them. When you stop the medicine, your insomnia may come back worse than before. This effect is called rebound insomnia.

Some prescription sleep medicines may bring on parasomnia. This disruptive sleep disorder can cause dangerous behaviors while you’re still mostly asleep. Some People might even  sleepwalk or eat, take medications, talk or even drive, all while unaware that they’re doing these things. You may appear to be awake, but your brain is not fully alert and Most people don’t remember doing any of these things after they wake up.

Are sleeping pills safe for children?

Currently, there are no prescription sleep medicines available for children. Changing a child’s sleep behaviors is often the best way to improve sleep.

Some parents give over-the-counter antihistamine medications to children to help them sleep. These medicines aren’t approved for sleep purposes. There’s a risk of overdosing a child.

Pregnancy and sleeping pills

 Any Medication you take while pregnant or breastfeeding passes to the baby. Consult your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter sleeping pills or supplements. For extreme insomnia, a provider may prescribe a short-term sleeping pills.

How to sleep better without sleeping pills?

1. Cut back on caffeine, including coffee, sodas and chocolate, throughout the day and especially before bedtime.

2. Shut off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime.

3. Turn your bedroom into a dark, quiet and cool sanctuary.

4. Stick to a sleep schedule (same bedtime and wake-up time) even on weekends.

5. Stay physically active during the day.

6. Quit smoking.

Often, nondrug treatments and behavioral changes are all you need for improved slumber. Your doctor can figure out what’s causing your insomnia and suggest the best plan to help you.

Most importantly Behavioral changes often improve sleep without the need for medications.