Sleeping Pills: Uses, Types, Side Effects, & More

How Do Prescription Sleeping Pills Work?

Prescription sleeping pills are utilized by those suffering from insomnia or sleep disturbances related to other health conditions. Many of these medications act on the central nervous system to promote sleep, with various types affecting different brain mechanisms. For example, benzodiazepines enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which may induce a calming effect. Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics may affect GABA activity to aid sleep without the broad effects of benzodiazepines.

Antidepressants used for sleep mainly affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which can impact sleep patterns. The suitability of a specific sleeping pill varies between individuals, depending on their health condition, the nature of their sleep problems, and how they metabolize medications.²

Who Uses Prescription Sleep Aids?

According to the CDC’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, about 4% of U.S. adults aged 20 and over reported using prescription sleep aids in the past month, increasing usage with age. The lowest prevalence was among those aged 20–39 at approximately 2%, increasing to 6% among those aged 50–59 and 7% among those aged 80 and over. This data suggests that older adults are more likely to use prescription sleep aids.³

However, these medications can be prescribed across a wide age range, depending on the individual’s health needs and sleep issues. While the survey doesn’t specifically address the use of these medications in children and teens, prescription sleep aids are generally used with caution in these populations and under strict medical supervision, primarily due to concerns about the potential effects on growth, development, and behavioral health.³

Who Should Not Take Prescription Sleep Aids?

Individuals with a history of substance abuse, certain psychiatric conditions, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be advised against taking prescription sleep aids. The risks associated with some of these medications can include dependency, withdrawal, and the potential for worsening certain mental health conditions. This can make certain medications unsuitable for some patients.

Moreover, those with respiratory issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or sleep apnea may need to use these medications with caution, as some sleep aids can cause slowed breathing. Patients must thoroughly discuss their medical history and current medications with their healthcare provider to assess the suitability of sleep aids.

Can You Take Prescription Sleep Aids While Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

Taking prescription sleep aids during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration due to the potential risks to the fetus or infant. Non-medication treatments are generally recommended as the first line of treatment due to their safety profile. However, when these interventions are ineffective, and the sleep disorder severely impacts the pregnant parent’s well-being, medications may be considered.

The decision-making process involves understanding several issues. Healthcare providers must consider the physiology of pregnancy, the impact of the condition on pregnancy or fetal and neonatal outcomes, and weigh the risk of the specific medication against the risk of an untreated or poorly treated condition.

Specific medications used for common sleep disorders during pregnancy and lactation have varying safety profiles. For example, antihistamines like diphenhydramine are widely used, though there is limited confirmation of their safety in all stages of pregnancy.⁴

Types of Prescription Medications That May Help With Sleep

Multiple prescription medications may be used as sleep aids, and each works through different mechanisms. Some of these include sedating antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics.⁵

• Antidepressants: Antidepressants, like trazodone (off-label meaning it is not FDA approved for treating insomnia) and doxepin, are often prescribed for their sleep-promoting properties. They are thought to impact serotonin and histamine to induce sleep.
• Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics: Zolpidem and zaleplon are thought to work in similar ways as benzodiazepines, but with fewer side effects.
• Benzodiazepines: Medications such as temazepam and lorazepam are thought to influence the activity of GABA. This neurotransmitter induces calmness and sleep, making these medications potentially effective for treating insomnia. However, they also carry a risk of dependence and withdrawal issues.
• Dopamine agonists: Medications such as pramipexole and ropinirole are thought to work by affecting the activity of dopamine, a chemical in the brain. For some, it may help decrease unpleasant sensations in the legs, which may improve sleep. They may be used for conditions like restless legs syndrome (RLS) and periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD).

This may not be a comprehensive list of types of prescription medications that may help with sleep. If you have questions about what options are the best for you, talk with your healthcare professional.

Sleeping Pills Compared

The range of prescription sleep medications available today offers choices for addressing sleep issues, whether trouble falling or staying asleep. Each category, such as benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, and others, comes with distinct effects, advantages, and potential risks.

Prescription sleep medication options include the following:⁵

	Medication Type	Helps You Fall Asleep	Helps You Stay Asleep	May Lead to Dependance
zolpidem (Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar)	Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic
eszopiclone (Lunesta)	Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic
temazepam (Restoril)	Benzodiazepine
ramelteon (Rozerem)	Melatonin receptor agonist
doxepin (Silenor)	Antidepressant
suvorexant (Belsomra)	Orexin receptor antagonist
daridorexant (Quviviq)	Orexin receptor antagonist
lemborexant (Dayvigo)	Orexin receptor antagonist
triazolam (Halcion)	Benzodiazepine
zapelon (Sonata)	Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic			Possibly

Medication Type	Helps You Fall Asleep	Helps You Stay Asleep	May Lead to Dependance
zolpidem (Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar)
Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic
eszopiclone (Lunesta)
Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic
temazepam (Restoril)
Benzodiazepine
ramelteon (Rozerem)
Melatonin receptor agonist
doxepin (Silenor)
Antidepressant
suvorexant (Belsomra)
Orexin receptor antagonist
daridorexant (Quviviq)
Orexin receptor antagonist
lemborexant (Dayvigo)
Orexin receptor antagonist
triazolam (Halcion)
Benzodiazepine
zapelon (Sonata)
Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic			Possibly

*All medications, including sleep medications, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are medications primarily used to treat anxiety, but they can also play a significant role in managing sleep disorders. They act on the central nervous system to produce a sedative effect, helping individuals with difficulties falling or staying asleep.

Some benzodiazepines specifically approved by the FDA for insomnia include temazepam (Restoril) and triazolam (Halcion), while others may be used off-label. Off-label (non-FDA approved) use means that a medication is not FDA-approved for a specific use, but it may be prescribed because the provider believes it may benefit a patient. Typically, these medications are recommended for short-term use due to the risk of dependency and withdrawal issues.⁶

• How benzodiazepines work: Benzodiazepines affect the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain that promotes calmness and relaxation. This increase in GABA activity leads to decreased brain activity, helping to induce sleep and reduce anxiety.
• Effectiveness of benzodiazepines: Research shows that benzodiazepines can effectively reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and increase sleep duration. However, they may become less effective over time, and their use is generally limited to short periods due to physical dependency risks.⁶
• Side effects of benzodiazepines: Common side effects include drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, impaired coordination, and memory issues. Some of these effects, particularly cognitive symptoms, may persist for a time, even after stopping the medication, especially with long-term use.
• What else you should know about benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines have a risk of physical dependency and should be used cautiously, particularly in individuals with a history of substance misuse. They carry a boxed warning regarding the potential for abuse and addiction. These medications can interact with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants like alcohol and opioids, increasing the risk of severe sedation and respiratory depression. Therefore, they’re not recommended in certain populations, including individuals with severe respiratory disorders, some with glaucoma, and those with a known hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines.

*All medications, including benzodiazepines, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Nonbenzodiazepine Hypnotics

Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics are a class of medications used to treat insomnia, including difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep. These medications are thought to act in similar ways as benzodiazepines but with fewer risks or adverse effects.

Medications in this group include eszopiclone (Lunesta), zolpidem (Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar), and zaleplon (Sonata). They are FDA-approved for sleep disorders, with specific approvals varying by drug. Generally, they are approved for short-term use, although some might be prescribed for longer periods under careful medical supervision.⁷

• How non-benzodiazepine hypnotics work: Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics affect the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes calmness and relaxation. This action may help induce sleep by decreasing brain activity.
• Effectiveness of nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics: Studies have shown that nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics can effectively reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and may increase total sleep time for individuals with insomnia. Depending on the specific mediation, they may be used short-term or long-term.
• Side effects of nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics: These include dizziness, headache, nausea, daytime drowsiness, sleepwalking, and other complex behaviors (e.g., driving, eating, or making phone calls while not fully awake). These effects can occur while taking the medication and, in some cases, may persist after stopping it, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time.
• What else you should know about nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics: Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics can interact with other medications, including those that depress the central nervous system, such as opioids, other sedatives, and alcohol, which can increase the risk of severe side effects. Boxed warnings for these medications highlight the risk of severe allergic reactions, complex sleep behaviors, and next-day impairment. You may be advised to stop taking these medications if you experience unusual changes in behavior, worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts. People with a history of substance abuse, certain mental health conditions, or severe liver disease should avoid these medications.

*All medications, including nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants, also known as antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), are medications primarily used to treat seizure disorders such as epilepsy. Some anticonvulsants can also promote better sleep due to their calming effect on the nervous system. While no anticonvulsants are FDA-approved specifically for sleep disorders, they are sometimes used off-label for this purpose. The approval for long-term use depends on the specific medication and the condition being treated. The main medications in this group include gabapentin (Neurontin), pregabalin (Lyrica), and valproic acid (Depakote).⁸

• How anticonvulsants work: Anticonvulsants stabilize electrical nerve activity in the brain by altering the way ions flow into nerve cells. This reduces the likelihood of a seizure and calms the nervous system, which can help with sleep in some individuals.
• Effectiveness of anticonvulsants: The effectiveness of anticonvulsants for sleep varies among individuals. These are used off-label so there are no large clinical trials to show their efficacy for sleep. However, it is thought that certain anticonvulsants, such as gabapentin, can improve sleep quality by increasing slow-wave sleep and reducing awakenings during the night.
• Side effects of anticonvulsants: The top five side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and fatigue. Some side effects may persist after stopping the medication, but most are likely to occur only while taking it. The risk of side effects varies with the specific anticonvulsant used.
• What else you should know about anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants may interact with other medications, and some have boxed warnings about serious risks such as suicidal thoughts or behavior, organ damage, and life-threatening skin reactions. Patients may be advised to stop taking them if they experience significant side effects or if the medication is not effectively managing their condition. People with certain health conditions or who are pregnant should avoid some anticonvulsants. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is necessary to manage risks and ensure the medication’s effectiveness.

*All medications, including anticonvulsants, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Dopamine Agonists (Anti-Parkinsonian Drugs)

Dopamine agonists are medications that mimic the effect of the natural neurotransmitter dopamine. They are primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and restless legs syndrome (RLS), a condition that can significantly impact sleep quality. While not specifically FDA-approved for promoting better sleep, their use in conditions like RLS indirectly supports improved sleep patterns. These medications are generally approved for long-term use under medical supervision. Key medications in this group include ropinirole (Requip) and pramipexole (Mirapex).⁹

• How dopamine agonists work: Dopamine agonists are thought to affect dopamine activity. This may improve symptoms such as motor function and reduce discomfort that interferes with sleep in the case of RLS.
• Effectiveness of dopamine agonists: Research has shown that dopamine agonists are effective in managing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and restless legs syndrome. For example, studies indicate that ropinirole and pramipexole can significantly reduce RLS symptoms and enhance sleep quality. Their effectiveness in these roles is well-documented in clinical practice and supported by guidelines for treating these conditions.⁹
• Side effects of dopamine agonists: Common side effects of dopamine agonists include nausea, dizziness, orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing), somnolence (drowsiness), and increased risk of impulse control problems (such as compulsive gambling or eating). These side effects are generally reversible and diminish once the medication is discontinued.
• What else you should know about dopamine agonists: Dopamine agonists can interact with other medications, so it’s important to discuss all current medications with a healthcare provider. They carry boxed warnings about the risk of heart valve problems and impulse control disorders. Individuals may be advised to stop taking dopamine agonists if they experience severe side effects, such as significant blood pressure changes or troubling impulse control symptoms. Those with a history of heart disease, psychiatric disorders, or impulse control issues should use these medications with caution or avoid them entirely.

*All medications, including dopamine agonists, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Orexin Receptor Antagonists

Orexin receptor antagonists are medications designed to block the actions of orexins, chemicals in the brain that regulate the sleep-wake cycle. These drugs help to promote sleep by inhibiting the orexin system, which decreases wakefulness. Medications in this group include suvorexant (Belsomra), lemborexant (Dayvigo), and daridorexant (Quviviq), all of which are FDA-approved specifically for the treatment of insomnia. Their approval for long-term use can vary, with the need for periodic reassessment by a healthcare provider.¹⁰

• How orexin receptor antagonists work: These medications affect the activity of brain chemicals called orexins, neurotransmitters that promote wakefulness. They help reduce wakefulness and facilitate the onset and maintenance of sleep.
• Effectiveness of orexin receptor antagonists: Studies indicate that orexin receptor antagonists help people fall asleep and stay asleep. These two improvements can enhance sleep quality without the adverse or unwanted effects typically linked to other sleep aids. They are seen as a beneficial treatment choice for insomnia, showcasing effectiveness in trials.¹⁰
• Side effects of orexin receptor antagonists: The top five side effects include fatigue, abnormal dreams, dry mouth, daytime sleepiness, and somnolence. These effects typically occur while taking the medication
• What else you should know about orexin receptor antagonists: Patients should be cautious about potential interactions with other medications, especially those that can affect the drug’s metabolism, such as CYP3A inhibitors. These medications may worsen certain symptoms of narcolepsy, including excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone while awake). Therefore, orexin receptor antagonists are not recommended for patients with narcolepsy.

*All medications, including orexin receptor antagonists, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are medications primarily used to treat depression. Some antidepressants can also promote better sleep, either as an FDA-approved use or off-label.

Doxepin (Silenor) is an antidepressant that is FDA-approved as a sleeping pill and can be used long-term. Trazodone is also commonly prescribed off-label to treat sleep and is usually used short-term but may sometimes be used long-term.

• How antidepressants may work as sleep aids: Antidepressants can aid sleep by affecting the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. These brain chemicals are thought to influence sleep and mood. Some have sedative effects, helping to cause increased sleepiness.
• Effectiveness of antidepressants as sleep aids: Some antidepressants can improve sleep quality by increasing sleep time and reducing nighttime awakenings. However, their effectiveness as sleep aids can vary widely among individuals. Trazodone, for example, is often used off-label for insomnia due to its sedative effects.
• Side effects of antidepressants: Top five side effects of antidepressants include dry mouth, drowsiness, weight gain, dizziness, and nausea. These effects typically occur only while taking the medication, but abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
• What else you should know about antidepressants: Antidepressants can interact with a wide range of medications, potentially leading to serious adverse effects. They carry a boxed warning regarding the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. People with a history of bipolar disorder or those at risk for bipolar disorder should use antidepressants cautiously. Before starting treatment, liver function, cardiovascular health, and drug interaction potential should be considered. Antidepressants should not be abruptly stopped without consulting a healthcare provider to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

*All medications, including antidepressants, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Other Prescription Sleep Aids

Prescription medications for insomnia include various drugs that do not neatly fit into the typical categories of sleep aids. Ramelteon (Rozerem) stands out due to its unique properties and mechanisms of action.²

Ramelteon (Rozerem)

Ramelteon, marketed under the brand name Rozerem, is a sleep medication distinctly different from others because it mimics the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin. It’s specifically FDA-approved for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling asleep and is considered safe for long-term use.¹¹

• How Rozerem works: Rozerem activates melatonin receptors in the brain, helping to regulate the sleep-wake cycle without the dependence potential associated with other sleep aids.
• Effectiveness of Rozerem: Clinical trials have demonstrated that Rozerem effectively reduces the time it takes to fall asleep without altering the natural sleep cycle.²
• Side effects of Rozerem: Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. These side effects typically cease once medication use is stopped, and they rarely persist after discontinuation.
• What else you should know about Rozerem: Rozerem should be used cautiously in patients taking fluvoxamine, a CYP1A2 inhibitor, due to increased exposure to ramelteon. It is not recommended for use in patients with severe liver impairment and should be avoided by those with a history of sleepwalking.

*All medications, including ramelteon, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

How Effective Are Sleeping Pills?

The effectiveness of sleeping pills can vary widely among individuals. Influences on effectiveness may include the type of sleeping pill, the dose, the user’s sleep disorder, and underlying health conditions. Clinical trials and patient-reported outcomes have shown that while sleeping pills may be effective in initiating or maintaining sleep in the short term, their success in eliminating insomnia is not universal.

For instance, a study revealed that a significant percentage of individuals using sleeping pills regularly (at least 21 days per month) reported sleeping for at least 8 hours, suggesting that these medications can indeed improve sleep duration for some users. However, over half of the frequent users did not meet the criteria for insomnia. This may mean these medications are prescribed for patients without a formal diagnosis of insomnia or those not experiencing short sleep. This potential mismatch between prescription practices and diagnosis could be skewing data on effectiveness.¹²

Short-term Vs. Long-term Efficacy

The effectiveness of sleeping pills tends to differ when comparing short-term to long-term use. In the short term, these medications can be highly effective in reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and increasing total sleep time, offering much-needed relief for individuals suffering from acute insomnia.

However, the long-term effectiveness of sleeping pills is less clear-cut. For some, the benefits of these medications may diminish over time due to tolerance development. Higher doses may be required to achieve the same sleep-inducing effects, potentially leading to dependency. Additionally, long-term use of sleeping pills has been associated with various health risks, including cognitive decline, increased risk of falls, and higher mortality rates.¹²

How Much Do Prescription Sleeping Pills Cost?

Prescription sleeping pills can vary widely in cost, influenced by factors such as the specific medication, dosage, length of treatment, and whether the medication is branded or generic. Insurance coverage also plays a significant role in determining out-of-pocket costs for patients. For example, generic versions of sedative-hypnotics, like zolpidem (often marketed under the brand name Ambien), can be on the less expensive end of the spectrum, costing patients anywhere from $8 to $15 for a month’s supply with insurance.

On the other hand, newer, brand-name medications such as suvorexant (Belsomra) may be more costly. Prices may range significantly higher, sometimes exceeding $300 for a similar supply without insurance coverage. Insurance coverage can help lower costs for some, depending on the policy.¹³

How Long Do You Have to Take Sleeping Pills?

The duration you should take sleeping pills largely depends on the type of medication and your individual health needs. Prescription sleeping pills, such as benzodiazepines, zopiclone, and zolpidem, are generally recommended for short-term use, typically less than 4 weeks. This recommendation is due to the risk of dependence and the potential for the medication to become less effective over time.

Some medications like suvorexant (Belsomra) may be prescribed for longer-term needs, as they can be used more safely for longer periods. Follow your healthcare professional’s advice regarding how long to take any sleeping medication and discuss any concerns or changes in your sleep patterns.¹

Is It OK to Take Sleeping Pills Every Night?

Taking sleeping pills every night can pose potential safety concerns. While they may provide short-term relief for insomnia, long-term use of certain sleeping pills can lead to dependence and tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. Additionally, frequent use of sleeping pills can disrupt natural sleep patterns and lead to rebound insomnia when the medication is stopped abruptly.

There are also risks of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and cognitive impairment. These may affect daily functioning and increase the risk of accidents, especially if the individual needs to drive or operate machinery. Some sleeping pills have also been associated with more serious health risks, including slowed breathing, allergic reactions, and overdose if taken in excess or with other substances.¹²

How Should You Stop Taking Sleeping Pills?

Stopping sleeping pills, particularly benzodiazepines and some nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, should not be done abruptly due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms and potential relapse of insomnia symptoms. The recommended approach is a gradual reduction of the dose, commonly referred to as “tapering,” under the guidance of a healthcare professional. This method helps minimize withdrawal symptoms, which can include trouble sleeping, restlessness, anxiety, and physical discomfort.

Tapering schedules can vary based on the individual’s situation and the specific medication, with experts often suggesting a period of two to four months for the process. Psychological or therapeutic support, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can further assist in the discontinuation process, making it more manageable and increasing the chances of success.¹⁴

How to Get Prescription Sleeping Pills

To obtain prescription sleeping pills, consult healthcare professionals authorized to prescribe medication, including your primary physician, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Discuss any sleep problems, overall health, and other medications you’re taking with your prescriber. This conversation helps them assess your situation and consider the best treatment for your needs.

Prescribers select a specific sleeping pill based on various factors such as the nature of your sleep issues (difficulty falling asleep versus staying asleep), potential side effects, your health history, and any interactions with other medications you might be taking. For instance, they might prescribe benzodiazepines for short-term use or suggest melatonin for issues with your sleep-wake cycle.

In some cases, especially if your sleep problems are complex or related to mental health issues, seeing a psychiatrist might be recommended. Psychiatrists specialize in mental health and can offer a nuanced approach to treating insomnia that may involve both medication and therapy. To find a psychiatrist, start with a referral from your primary healthcare provider or use reputable directories provided by national psychiatric associations or health services in your region.

Which Sleeping Pills Work Immediately?

Sleeping pills designed for immediate action primarily include benzodiazepines such as temazepam and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics like zolpidem and zopiclone. These medications are thought to work by affecting the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain that promote sleep, leading to increased sleepiness.

For example, zolpidem is known for its quick action, often taking effect within 15 to 30 minutes. This makes it a suitable choice for those who have trouble falling asleep. However, its fast-acting nature also comes with risks, including the potential for dependence and tolerance. Always follow your prescribers directions for taking sleeping pills to reduce these risks and gain the most benefit for your symptoms.

In most cases, taking a sleeping pill to help with staying asleep should work the first time you take the medication. If you have questions about how long a specific medication will take to work for you, talk with your healthcare professional.

Sleeping Pills in Combination With Lifestyle Changes

Using sleeping pills with lifestyle changes can improve sleep quality and duration for many individuals with insomnia. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, practicing good sleep hygiene (like reducing screen time before bed), managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy, and maintaining regular physical activity are foundational to improving sleep.

These changes can address the underlying causes of sleep disturbances, potentially reducing the need for medication. However, sleeping pills alone do not address the root causes of insomnia. In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is recommended as a first-line treatment, with medication used as a short-term aid alongside lifestyle interventions.

How to Know if Prescription Sleep Aids Are Right for You

To know if prescription sleep aids are right for you, consider factors such as the nature and severity of your sleep issues, underlying causes, and overall health. Consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific situation, including any existing medical conditions and medications you may be taking. It’s also essential to understand the potential side effects and risks associated with sleep aids, ensuring they align with your health goals and conditions.