Sleep inducers

There are several types of drugs available to help treat insomnia or to make it easier to fall asleep. Some of them are available by prescription only. Others can be purchased over-the-counter at your pharmacy.

The nonprescription sleep aids usually contain antihistamines. These act on the central nervous system to increase feelings of sleepiness and to help maintain sleep. The active ingredients in these products may include diphenhydramine, doxylamine, or other antihistamines.

The most commonly prescribed sleep inducing medicine is zolpidem, sold under the brand name Ambien. Another commonly prescribed class of medications for insomnia is the benzodiazepines. This class includes medicines such as diazepam, lorazepam, and triazolam that are available generically and also the brand names Valium, Ativan, and Halcion.

Generally, sleep aids are intended to be used for only a short period of time, usually no longer than 1 to 2 weeks. If you think you need to take an insomnia medicine for longer than 2 weeks, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider. Insomnia that lasts longer than this period of time may be a sign of a medical problem.

All medicines for sleep have similar side effects. They may occasionally cause headaches or nightmares. They may make you feel tired in the morning and make it difficult to concentrate. If you get a full night's sleep, it helps to reduce these side effects.

These medicines also add to the effects of alcohol and other types of drugs such as antihistamines, allergy medicines, some cold preparations, sedatives, tranquilizers, and muscle relaxants. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any of these medicines as a sleep aid.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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