If you suffer from restless leg syndrome, antihistamines can even make symptoms worse, so talk to your doctor before using any. While these drugs may make you feel drowsy, they can also lead to side effects like dizziness, dry mouth, and memory or cognition problems and they're not designed for long-term use. "They antagonize the alerting chemical called histamine in one particular region of the brain, and by antagonizing histamine, it makes people sleepy." "In the doses that are available over the counter, antihistamines are relatively safe and they work for a lot of people," says Pradeep Bollu, M.D., a board-certified sleep specialist and neurologist with MU Health Care. (The allergy medication Benadryl also contains diphenhydramine, which is why it can make you sleepy.)
Here's what you can expect from each type: AntihistaminesĬommon sleep meds like Zzzquil and Unisom contain antihistamines like diphenhydramine and doxylamine as the active ingredients. Most OTC sleep aids induce sleep using antihistamines, but you'll also find popular supplements like melatonin and valerian in the pharmacy aisles. Sleep apnea, mood disorders, and thyroid problems can all cause sleeplessness. If you're experiencing chronic insomnia, visit your primary care provider to figure out it's a sign of something more serious. Doing so can cause side effects like persistent drowsiness, confusion, memory problems, dry mouth, and urinary issues. OTC sleep aids aren't habit-forming in the sense that your body won't become physically dependent on them, but they're also not designed for regular, long-term use. Do NOT give children sleep aids, unless cleared by a pediatrician.Start at a low dose, especially with older adults, to avoid excessive drowsiness.Never mix sleep aids with alcohol, as it can increase the sedative effect.Ask your doctor if sleep aids interact with any medications you're taking.Always consult a doctor first if you're pregnant, breast-feeding, or have liver problems, but everyone should follow these precautions with OTC sleep aids:
#OVER THE COUNTER SLEEP AID FULL#
Taking the lowest recommended dose before a full night's sleep (not in the middle of the night) can help prevent grogginess the next day. Because this hangover effect can up your risk for accidents, she advises against using anything that affects your alertness in the morning. "Any time you take anything sedating there’s the chance you’re going to feel groggy the next morning," says Victoria Sharma, M.D., a board-certified doctor in sleep medicine and neurology at Sharp Grossmont Hospital.
Using an OTC sleep aid is generally safe you'll just want to watch for a hangover effect.
#OVER THE COUNTER SLEEP AID HOW TO#
With that in mind, here's how to navigate the pharmacy aisle and rethink your sleep routine if you're suffering from insomnia, according to doctors. Sleep aids can interact with other medications you take, and lingering effects can also put your safety at risk. Nonprescription medications like ZzzQuil and Unisom and supplements such as melatonin and valerian can help get your brain in a restful mood, but just because you don't need a doctor's note doesn't mean they're always the best choice. It's enough to make anyone want to reach into the medicine cabinet for some over-the-counter sleeping pills. Getting those coveted eight hours of sleep at night feels all the more elusive when you've had caffeine too late in the day or can't stop running through your to-do list.
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