Comparing Prescription Sleep Aids: What You Need to Know
Most people experience sleepless nights at some point in their life, whether due to stress or temporary changes in their environment. When such nights become a recurrent pattern, people may want to consider using prescription sleep aids that can help them get back to healthy, regular sleep.
Prescription sleep aids come in a variety of forms, including tablets, liquids, and melatonin gummies. There are different types of prescription medications that each have varying levels of effectiveness and potential interactions with other drugs.
Familiarizing yourself with the types of prescription sleep aids on the market is essential to ensuring that you choose the right one for your condition and lifestyle. This article will discuss the differences between the available prescription sleep aids.
Types of Prescription Sleep Aids
The primary categories of prescription sleep aids are sedative-hypnotics and melatonin agonists. Sedative-hypnotics work by slowing down the central nervous system, making it easier for the user to go to sleep and stay asleep. Melatonin agonists, on the other hand, act as imitators of the natural hormone melatonin, which helps to regulate sleep cycles.
The most common sedative-hypnotics available are benzodiazepines, while the most common melatonin agonists are the widely-used Ramelteon and Trazodone.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, such as Valium, Xanax, and Ativan, are considered the “gold standard” when it comes to short-term and situational insomnia. Benzodiazepines are sedatives that target the part of the brain that influences sleep and relaxation while suppressing the body’s natural arousal response.
These medications also activiate the release of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system. Benzodiazepines can be effective in short-term use for those needing to get to sleep quickly, but their long-term use is not recommended.
Some potential side effects of benzodiazepines include daytime sleepiness, confusion, and poor coordination. If taken with alcohol, the sedative effects of benzodiazepines can be enhanced prohibitively; both substances should be avoided in combination.
Ramelteon
Ramelteon, marketed under the brand name Rozerem, is a melatonin agonist; this type of sleep aid works by mimicking the action of natural melatonin to regulate circadian rhythms. Unlike benzodiazepines, it does not act on the central nervous system and is considered to be safe for regular long-term use.
Ramelteon helps users transition into the deeper type of sleep and remain asleep, allowing them to wake up feeling rested. Common side effects of this medication include dizziness, headache, and abdominal discomfort.
Trazodone
Trazodone, either alone or in combination with sedative-hypnotics, is another melatonin agonist that can be taken for short-term or long-term use. It works by boosting natural serotonin levels in the brain, inducing tranquil, restful sleep. Trazodone has been known to actually improve the quality of sleep for users, helping users reach the deeper stages of sleep more quickly.
Common side effects of Trazodone include trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and fatigue. However, these effects are typically mild and can easily be managed with the right sleep hygiene goal.
Choosing The Right Sleep Aid For You
- Consider the length of time the sleep aid should last: short-term vs. long-term
- Think about potential side effects and interactions with other medications
- Consult with your doctor to consider your medical history
- Decide whether a sedative-hypnotic or a melatonin agonist would work best for you
Prescription sleep aids can be a valuable tool in combatting insomnia. This article has discussed the differences between sedative-hypnotics and melatonin agonists to help you figure out which type of sleep aid is right for you. Remember to consult your doctor before starting any new medications and to make sure your sleep aid is compatible with any other medications you may already be taking.