PRESCRIPTION SLEEP MEDICINES
Prescription sleep medicines fall into one of several classes. In determining which sleep medicines may be right for you, your provider will consider your medical history, your insomnia symptoms, other medications you are taking, and the way the medicine works in the body.
Prescription sleep medicines fall into one of several classes. In determining which sleep medicines may be right for you, your provider will consider your medical history, your insomnia symptoms, other medications you are taking, and the way the medicine works in the body.
NON-BENZODIAZEPINES. This is the newest class of sleep medicines. The currently available products have a short half-life, which means they are eliminated from the body quickly. Because of this, they are not likely to cause daytime sleepiness. They are also “selective,” which means they target specific receptors that are thought to be associated with sleep. (Examples: Sonata, Ambien)
BENZODIAZEPINES.
This class includes both long-acting medicines (which can linger in
the body and potentially cause daytime drowsiness) and short-acting
medicines (which do not stay in the bloodstream as long). Many
benzodiazepines were originally formulated to treat anxiety.
(Example: Klonipin, Valium)
ANTIDEPRESSANTS. Providers may prescribe antidepressants to promote sleep, although none of these medicines are specifically approved for this purpose.
ANTIDEPRESSANTS. Providers may prescribe antidepressants to promote sleep, although none of these medicines are specifically approved for this purpose.
NONPRESCRIPTION SLEEP MEDICINES
Nonprescription sleep medicines usually contain antihistamines which may induce drowsiness that lasts into the next day. Many cold and allergy medicines contain antihistamines ( like diphenhydramine hydrochloride - Benedryl), which is why they can make you feel sleepy.
Nonprescription sleep medicines usually contain antihistamines which may induce drowsiness that lasts into the next day. Many cold and allergy medicines contain antihistamines ( like diphenhydramine hydrochloride - Benedryl), which is why they can make you feel sleepy.
Over
the counter (OTC) sleep medications can interact with other medicines
you may be taking, so you should consult your provider or pharmacist
before using one of these sleep aids.
Melatonin.
Although melatonin is widely sold as a sleep aid, it remains
controversial in medical circles. Because melatonin (a hormone) is
classified as a dietary supplement, it has not undergone the rigorous
clinical testing that medicines do.
Herbal
sleep aids. Herbal remedies for sleep problems include
chamomile, valerian root, hops, lavender, and passionflower. Like
melatonin, these herbal remedies have not undergone extensive
testing. Herbal remedies are generally considered safe; however,
there are some that can be harmful under certain circumstances.
(Example: You should not use chamomile if you are pregnant or if you
are taking blood thinners.)
Important:
While dietary supplements and herbal remedies may sound
harmless, they can have significant side effects or drug
interactions. Before trying these alternative sleep aids, talk with
your provider.
Questions
to ask about sleep aids
You should discuss ANY sleep aid you are planning to take — whether prescription or nonprescription — with your provider.
You should discuss ANY sleep aid you are planning to take — whether prescription or nonprescription — with your provider.
- How long can I take this medication?
Before taking any sleep aid, ask about the duration and frequency of its use.
Prescription sleep medicines are usually prescribed for 7 to 10 days. Your provider may recommend that you use a prescription sleep aid for more than 10 days after he or she reassesses your particular sleep problems.
- Am I at risk for becoming addicted to this medicine?
If taken as prescribed, sleep medicines usually do not cause dependence (addiction). If you have been dependent on alcohol or other drugs in the past, you might have a greater chance of becoming addicted.
Side
effects
In general, the most common side effects of sleep medicines include dizziness, lightheadedness, daytime drowsiness, diarrhea, and difficulty with coordination. With some prescription medicines, however, the risk of these side effects is very small.
Here are some ways to ensure your treatment is as safe and successful as possible:
In general, the most common side effects of sleep medicines include dizziness, lightheadedness, daytime drowsiness, diarrhea, and difficulty with coordination. With some prescription medicines, however, the risk of these side effects is very small.
Here are some ways to ensure your treatment is as safe and successful as possible:
- Use only as directed.
- Never use alcohol while taking any sleep medicine.
- Tell your provider if you are taking any other medicines, including those you can buy without a prescription.
- If you experience any unusual behavior changes or thought patterns after starting on a medicine, report it to your provider.
- When you first start taking any sleep medication, use extreme care while doing anything that requires complete alertness, such as driving a car or operating machinery. See whether the medicine has any effect on you the next day.
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This is the last Part of Sleepless in New Hanover County. If you stll have questions, contact Patient Centered Care for an appointment with a Provider.
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