Prescription Sleep Aids: A Detailed Look
The amount of quality sleep that an individual requires each night varies from person to person, and most people struggle to meet the amount they need. If you have difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep, prescription sleep aids can help you get the restful sleep you need. These medications can help treat insomnia, sleep apnea, and some other sleep disorders.
Prescription sleep aids usually come in the form of tablets, capsules, or other oral medications that can be taken just before bedtime. They are often used in combination with other treatments, including lifestyle or behavior modification techniques.
There are several types of prescription sleep aids, each with their own benefits and side effects. It is important to understand each type to ensure you are taking the most suitable medication.
Common Types of Prescription Sleep Aids
The most common types of prescription sleep aids are benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepines, anti-epileptic drugs, and antidepressants. Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam (Ativan) and diazepam (Valium), work quickly and are used to treat short-term insomnia. Non-benzo drugs such as zopiclone (Imovane), zolpidem (Ambien), and eszopiclone (Lunesta) are fast-acting medications that produce a calming effect. Anti-epileptic drugs, such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica) are often used off-label for insomnia.
Antidepressants can also be used to treat chronic insomnia. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil), have been used to treat insomnia for many years. Newer antidepressant medications such as trazodone (Desyrel) and mirtazapine (Remeron) are often prescribed for insomnia.
Side Effects
Although prescription sleep aids can be helpful in treating insomnia, they carry the potential for side effects. Common side effects of benzodiazepines include drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired motor skills. Non-benzodiazepines may cause dizziness, headache, and impaired judgment. Anti-epileptic drugs may cause side effects such as tremors and mood swings. Antidepressants can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and agitation.
Prescription sleep aids may also cause addiction or dependency. Prolonged use could lead to tolerance, meaning the patient will need higher doses for the same effect. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking any sleep aide, especially if you already take other medications.
Using Prescription Sleep Aids Safely
- Speak to a doctor before taking prescription sleep aids.
- Follow directions on the label carefully.
- Start with the lowest dose, and increase if needed.
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose, or use them more frequently than recommended.
- Do not mix with alcohol or other drugs.
- Time the prescription sleep aid with bedtime.
Conclusion
Prescription sleep aids can be an effective treatment for insomnia and some sleep disorders. However, it is important to understand the potential side effects and take the medication as directed. Speak to your doctor about your sleep issues and if prescription sleep aids are a suitable treatment for you.