Sleeping pills and the elderly
It is a common myth that your sleep quality decreases as you age. You may need a different amount of sleep than before, and maybe a nap during the day, but not going to automatically assume that just because you have insomnia is aging. Visit to sleep well as the age for more information. If you decide to use sleeping pills, be careful. Sleeping pill use is associated with increased risk of falling night and injuries in older adults. You may have to start at a lower dose for a young adult.
Sleeping pills without a prescription
The main ingredient of non-prescription sleeping pills is an antihistamine. Antihistamines are generally taken for allergies. However, histamine, a chemical messenger in the brain, promotes wakefulness; to antihistamine also has the effect of making you feel very sleepy. Some OTC sleep aids also include a pain reliever.
The counter sleeping pills are intended to be used for short-term insomnia. Tolerance to the medication, which means you need a higher dose of the medication to work, can develop in just a few days.
Side effects of sleep medications without a prescription
The antihistamines used in sleep can cause side effects. Effects may be stronger in older adults. As with any medication, you should consult your doctor before taking sleep medication. This is especially important if you have glaucoma, difficulty urinating due to enlarged prostate gland, or a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis.
Common side effects of sleep the next day
dizziness and forgetfulness
clumsiness, feeling off-balance
constipation and urinary retention
blurred vision
dry mouth and throat
Prescription sleeping pills
There are several different types of prescription drugs. These drugs are classified as sedative hypnotics. In general, the drugs act by the work of the receptors in the brain to slow down the nervous system, induce and maintain sleep.
The following provides basic information about types of sleep medications. Some drugs are used more to induce sleep, while others are used to fall asleep. Some last longer than others on your system and some have a higher risk of becoming habit forming.
Benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics
Benzodiazepines are the oldest class of drugs commonly in use still dream. Benzodiazepines, as a group, believed to have a higher risk of dependence than other sedative hypnotic’s insomnia. All are classified as controlled substances, although new formulations attempt to minimize the impact. Primarily used to treat anxiety disorders, there are several benzodiazepines that are approved for the treatment of insomnia.
Other sedative-hypnotics
Some newer drugs do not have the same chemical structure as a benzodiazepine, but act more specifically in the same area in the brain. Is thought to have fewer side effects and less risk of dependence, but are still considered controlled substances. A drug of this class, eszopiclone (Lunesta) has been tested for long-term use, up to a maximum of six months in clinical trials.
Hypnotic inhibitor of melatonin receptors
This drug mimics the sleep hormone melatonin. Has little risk of physical dependence, but has side effects.
Depression and insomnia pills
Some studies have shown that trazodone may be effective in the short term, but studies on long-term use do not exist. As with all medicines for depression, a small but significant risk of suicidal thoughts or worsening of depression, especially in children and adolescents.
Side effects of sleeping pills
These risks include severe allergic reactions, severe facial swelling, and complexity of the sleep-related behaviors, memory lapses and hallucinations. Sleep behaviors may include sleep while driving.