If you’re having difficulty sleeping, over-the-counter sleep medications may help. Most of these remedies contain antihistamines such as diphenhydramine or doxylamine; Rozerem (ramelteon) and Silenor (doxepin) are also sedative-hypnotics which promote restful nights.
However, medications may cause next-day fatigue and have adverse reactions that are more dangerous for older adults than nonmedicinal methods of insomnia relief. Usually nonmedical methods work better for getting quality rest.
Diphenhydramine
If you are having difficulty sleeping, medications may help – these include antihistamines, melatonin, and valerian root. Before making a decision based on medications alone alone it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider as some can have serious adverse reactions.
Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine which produces drowsiness, is found in various over-the-counter sleep aids like Benadryl, Nyquil, Tylenol PM and ZzzQuil. For best results it should be taken approximately 20 minutes prior to bedtime for optimal results; in addition to treating cold and allergy symptoms.
As this medication can cause drowsiness that affects concentration, please read your medication packet’s leaflet for full details before driving or operating machinery after taking this drug. Over time you should become accustomed to its effects.
Doxylamine
Doxylamine (Unisom, among others) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl, ZzzQuil) are two antihistamines used to help you sleep. While their mechanisms work similarly, the former stays in your system longer than its counterpart, potentially increasing next-day fatigue. Doxylamine may also be found in nighttime cough and cold medications and morning sickness remedies along with vitamin B6.
These medications may not be ideal solutions for people suffering from chronic insomnia and should only be taken for short-term use. Furthermore, they may cause side effects like dry mouth and constipation – so talk to your physician about other alternatives, like melatonin and valerian root which are both safe products to try as short-term remedies; but be sure to speak to a healthcare provider first to assess its risks and benefits for yourself.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as benzos, are a class of medications which act by slowing brain signals and producing sedation, hypnosis and anxiety reduction. Prescribed by doctors to treat insomnia and anxiety disorders; used prior to medical procedures as an anesthesia; reduced seizures; crushed and snorted by young people in order to get high; also prescribed to combat seizures by healthcare practitioners.
Benzos work by increasing GABA neurotransmitter levels in the brain, which reduces anxiety and promotes sleepiness. Long term use, however, may result in amnesia, irritability and vivid or disturbing dreams; abrupt cessation can result in serious withdrawal symptoms; common examples of benzos include Valium, Xanax, Klonopin (Oxazepam), Clorazepate Dalmane Flurazepam Temazepam etc.
Passion flower
Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) has long been used as an herbal treatment for insomnia, anxiety and other sleep disorders. It may work by modulating GABA and dopamine levels which reduce activity in your brain to help create calmness; additionally, passion flowers contain ample vitamin B6 for relaxation purposes and sleep inducing benefits.
As opposed to prescription medicines, herbs and supplements don’t undergo the same rigorous tests before being sold on the market. As they could interact with other drugs or cause side effects, it’s wise to discuss any new products with your health care provider first before trying them.
As evidence from some research suggests, passion flower may help with sleep quality. One study showed that those who drank passion flower tea for seven days reported improved sleep compared to those who hadn’t.
Natural sleep aids
Many natural sleep aids rely on herbs. While some, such as valerian root and passion flower, have limited clinical evidence supporting their use, others such as chamomile and lavender are believed to enhance quality sleep. Dietary supplements aren’t as tightly regulated as pharmaceutical drugs, so before making your decision consult your healthcare provider first.
Health care providers typically advise lifestyle changes and behavior therapy as the initial steps for individuals with insomnia or sleep issues, however some will prescribe medication. Ample sleep is vital to good health and sleep disorders can contribute to long-term diseases. There are a variety of over the counter and prescription sleep aids available – some sedatives while others promote relaxation; these may include Melatonin, Ramelteon (Rozerem) or Trazodone (Desyrel), but all may cause side effects; see here for further details.