Side Effects of Sleep Medicine
Most sleep medicines must be prescribed by doctors under federal laws, because many have potentially addictive narcotic agents to help people fall asleep. There are also a few over-the-counter sleep remedies. All sleep medicines have the potential for side effects and allergic reaction, and in the case of prescription drugs they can be especially serious.
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Unisom
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Unisom is an over-the-counter sleep medicine composed of doxylamine, according to MedlinePlus. It is not considered physically addictive like narcotic sleeping medications. However, there is still a risk of side effects or allergic reaction. Possible adverse symptoms associated with Unisom are dry mouth, dry nose, dry throat, drowsiness, nausea, increased chest congestion, headache, excitement and nervousness. Severe incidences of such side effects or blurred vision or problems urinating are considered medical emergencies.
Precautions
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Narcotic sleep medicines carry the risk of some significant and even fatal side effects, and are not intended for long-term use. Users of some pills have reported addiction, and people have overdosed and died from using narcotic sleep medicines. Some people have been found sleepwalking or driving while under the influence of sleeping pills after taking such pills. Afterward, they had no memory of the events. The risk of such side effects can be reduced by devoting time and space to sleep after taking such medications.
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Halcion
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Halcion is a benzodiazepine sleep medicine composed of triazolam, and its prescriptions are strictly monitored by the federal government, according to MedlinePlus. Suddenly stopping Halcion after long-term use can lead to seizures, coma and possibly death. Side effects associated with intermittent use are dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, headache, nervousness, coordination problems, skin tingling, nausea and vomiting. Severe occurrences of side effects or rash, hives, itching or difficulty breathing mandate emergency medical help.
Lunesta
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Lunesta is the brand-name for the prescription sleep medicine eszopiclone, according to MedlinePlus. It should not be taken after a heavy and/or high-fat meal for maximum effectiveness. Possible side effects associated with Lunesta treatment are headache, daytime drowsiness, pain, dizziness, coordination problems, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, male breast enlargement and painful menstrual periods. Severe side effects that require prompt medical intervention are hoarseness, feeling that the throat is closing, hives, itching and breathing problems.
Sonata
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Sonata is the brand name for the prescription sleep medicine zaleplon, according to MedlinePlus. Like Lunesta, it will not work as well if taken after a heavy and/or high-fat meal. Possible side effects resulting from taking Lunesta are numbness, tingling or a burning sensation of the hands and/or feet, coordination problems, eye pain, vision problems, changed sense of smell, painful menstrual periods, sensitivity to noise, headache, dizziness, drowsiness and appetite loss. Serious side effects which necessitate emergency medical help are hives, itching, breathing problems, swelling of the eyes, lips, tongue, throat or face.
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