Use Of Sleep Aids, Benefits And Risks

People with insomnia often depend on sleep aids to fall asleep. There are different types of sleep aids to get good night sleep.

Sleeping pills or the drugs are the sleep aids which are used to promote sleep and used by many people. These are called over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.

Herbs are the sleep aids which promote sleep naturally. These are called herbal sleep aids. [Natural Sleep Aids]

OTC sleep aids:

These OTC drugs are sold in medical stores and online for the treatment of insomnia. These drugs can also be purchased without prescription from the physician or doctor.

FDA approved sleep aids contain antihistamine as the active ingredient. Histamine is a chemical messenger in your brain that promotes wakefulness. Antihistamines produce drowsiness by suppressing the activity of histamine.

The sleep aids that contain antihistamines which are permitted by FDA are diphenhydramine citrate, doxylamine succinate and diphenhydramine hydrochloride.

The antihistamines used in sleep aids can produce side effects such as headaches, fatigue, daytime sleepiness, vomiting, dizziness and decreased alertness. Some side effects can be stronger in aged people. Daytime drowsiness can be severe in people who use antihistamines.

Research should be conducted on the sleep aids whether they improve sleep and are effective. Enough evidence does not exist to support OTC sleep aids. OTC sleep aids may produce short term benefits for people who suffer with insomnia. [Prescription Sleep Aids]

Information regarding OTC sleep aids:

1. The information on the OTC drugs should be read carefully and should be used only at bedtime.
2. They should be taken according to the directions of the doctor and these are not intended for the children below the age of twelve.
3. The sleep aids which contain antihistamine are used only for people who have trouble falling asleep and are used for only few nights.
4. The sleep aids should not be taken along with other sedatives such as alcohol.
5. Pregnant women should consult the doctor before using the sleep aids.

Herbal sleep aids:

Herbal sleep aids are not approved or regulated by FDA. As herbal sleep aids are not regulated by FDA, the composition varies widely and some of the herbs may be harmful. Some of the herbs are valerian, chamomile, and passion flower.

Valerian is a relaxant herb which has a calming effect on the nervous system. It helps to promote sleep quickly and decreases the amount of time to fall asleep. Unlike other sleep aids, it is not known to cause morning grogginess and is non-addictive.

Chamomile is a herb which contains amino acid tryptophan. It also contains flavonoids. Chamomile tea is used as a sedative and good for insomnia and other nervous conditions.

When chamomile is used as directed, it does not cause serious side effects. But in some cases, an allergic reaction such as dizziness, rash, swelling and itching may result. If any side effects are noticed, consult the doctor immediately.

Passion flower is a herb used as a sedative for insomnia. It has tranquilizing effect and anti-anxiety effects. There are no side effects reported for passion flower and about the dosage. But for pregnant women and children under the age of two, it is not recommended.