Drugs For Sleep

In general, one should try to avoid taking sleeping pills and/or tranquilizers; some are addicting and others can cause bad dreams or hallucinations. The first line of treatment to induce sleep should be over-the-counter drugs. An antihistamine such as Benadryl is often effective. Sometimes pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), or naproxelene (Aleve) can promote comfort and sleep. For those who prefer alternative medicines, Valerian is an herbal medicine used in Europe for sleep.

Only as a last remedy should you see your doctor for sleeping pills. There are two types: intermediate and long acting. Long-acting sleeping pills (e.g., Prosom, Dalmane, Restoril) may cause hangovers, drowsiness, and fatigue the next day. Conversely, those that are intermediate in their action (e.g., Halcion, Ambien) may result in your waking up in the middle of the night. Certain long-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium) can be more problematic for older adults. While Valium has a half life of approximately 20 hours in a 20 years old, it may take 80 hours to clear this drug in an elderly individual. It can therefore build up in your body and cause problems. Sleeping pills should only be taken for a few days.

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