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Mayo Clinic sleep disorder treatment center specialists have recommendations for those who plan to take medication to improve their sleep.
Sleep Medications Are Not Miracle Cures
Free can be effective for a sporadic night of insomnia. However, there are some reservations to consider.
Most of them contain antihistamines. Tolerance to the sedative effects of antihistamines can be quickly metabolized, so the more you take, the less you sleep later.
Also, some may make you feel "groggy" and bad the next day, the so-called "hangover effect."
Similarly, effects may occur when it is combined with other drugs and much remains to be studied about the safety and effectiveness of over-the-counter sleeping pills
]: The Most Common Options
Mayo Clinic listed some of the most common options for over-the-counter sleeping pills and the possible side effects are:
Diphenhydramine. It is a sedative antihistamine. Some of the side effects are somnolence during the day, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation and urinary retention.
Doxylamine succinate. Doxylamine is also a sedative antihistamine, so the side effects are similar to those of diphenhydramine.
Melatonin. The hormone melatonin helps to control the natural cycle of sleep. Some studies suggest that melatonin supplements can help treat jet lag – the lack of sleep that occurs when we travel because of the delay, for example – or reduce the time it takes to fall asleep (though The effect is usually mild). Side effects can include headaches and drowsiness during the day.
Valeriana. Supplements made from this plant are sometimes taken as sleeping pills. While some studies indicate some therapeutic benefits, other studies may not confirm the same thing. In general, valerian does not appear to have any side effects
Important Precautions
Consult a doctor first. You do not need the doctor 's approval to take an over – the – counter sleeping pill, but it' s a good idea to ask if they can mix with any other drug. other medications or pre-existing conditions, as well as to determine the dose that corresponds to each patient. In addition, sleeping pills pose a risk to pregnant or badfeeding women and may pose a risk to people over the age of 75, such as a stroke.
Consider the precautions. Diphenhydramine and doxylamine are not recommended for people with angle-closure glaucoma, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnea, severe liver disease, and Clogging of the digestive tract or urinary retention. In addition, these medications are not recommended for the elderly, as they may increase the risk of dementia and cause several side effects such as confusion, hallucinations, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, nausea, impaired sweating, inability to to empty completely. bladder (urinary retention) and fast heart rate (tachycardia).
Take them slowly. They are a temporary solution for insomnia. In general, they should not be taken for more than two weeks.
Avoid alcohol . Never mix alcohol with sleeping pills. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of drugs.
Beware of side effects. When taking sleeping pills, you should not drive or conduct activities in which the person must remain alert.
Sleeping well at night is good for everyone and over-the-counter medications can be a temporary help. If you continue to have trouble sleeping, consult your doctor. In addition to some changes in your lifestyle, the doctor may recommend behavioral therapy to help you adopt new sleep habits and give you some tips to make the place where you sleep more conducive. In some cases, prescribed sleeping pills may be recommended for a short period.
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