About Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids
Insomnia, even temporary insomnia, can be debilitating. Sleepless nights can occur due to trouble falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep or both. The quickest and simplest solution is to go to any pharmacy for a number of over-the-counter remedies that can rectify both problems. Before trekking into the corner drug store and browsing the overwhelming number of treatments, be aware of what the treatments contain and what your options are.
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Sleeping Pills
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The most common over-the-counter sleeping aid is sleeping pills. Most of these pills contain antihistimines such as diphenhydramine, which is found in Benadryl, and doxylamine, but others contain the neurotransmitter melatonin. Some popular examples of OTC sleeping pills are Tylenol PM, Sominex, Unisom, Equate, Nytol, Sleepinal and Nighttime Sleep Aid.
Possible Side Effects
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All OTC sleeping pills should only be taken if a person can sleep for at least 8 hours due to the risk of drowsiness and grogginess. However, these side effects can occur whether a person has allowed enough time for 8 hours of sleep or not. Other possible side effects are similar to the effects from a hangover, including dizziness, forgetfulness, clumsiness, blurred vision and dry mouth.
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Dependency Risk
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Unfortunately, all OTC sleeping pills have a risk of dependency. Over time, the body will develop a tolerance to the medication, which then will cause users to increase the amount taken.
Herbal Remedies
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Numerous plants have sedative effects that can be found in herb medications such as St. John's Wort and melatonin herbal supplements. Herbal teas are also just as effective, especially chamomile, lime blossom, valerian, skullcap and passionflower teas (see Resources).
Risk of Rebound Insomnia
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Sleep aids, even herbal supplements, should always be stopped gradually. Sudden stops in treatment can cause a few nights of severe insomnia, often more severe than the insomnia experienced before treatment.
Always Consult Your Doctor
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Before considering any sleep aid, talk to your doctor first. She may have recommendations of over-the-counter treatments to try, and she may want to monitor your progress to ensure that you do not have a more serious condition, such as clinical depression.
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