Should I Take a Sleeping Pill to Ensure a Good Night's Sleep?

Sleeping pills may help you get a good night's sleep.

Short Term or Intermittent Use

Sleeping pills have been shown to reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, and increase the total amount of time spent sleeping.

Long Term, Constant Use

Constant, long term use of sleeping pills may lead to a dependency on the drug. Effects of constant sleeping pill use include a hangover effect in the morning, and being less receptive to the drug, therefore requiring more.

Bottom Line

Be responsible about your sleeping pill use. Use the smallest dose possible, and only after two consecutive bad nights. Avoid using sleeping pills two nights in a row. Use sleeping pills only when you have sufficient time for a full 7 to 8 hours of sleep.

References

• Talk About Sleep: Benefits and Drawbacks of Sleeping Pills
• Help Guide: Sleeping Pills, Sleep Aids and Medications