Over The Counter Sleep Medicine That Works

Otc sleep aids vs.

Over the counter sleep medicine that works.

And taking certain prescription sleeping pills can lead to drug abuse or drug dependence so it s important to follow your doctor s advice. Look we get it. In the doses that are available over the counter antihistamines are relatively safe and they work for a lot of people says pradeep bollu m d a board certified sleep specialist and. Active ingredients in these sleep remedies are gentler than those found in prescription strength pills.

Medication interactions are possible as well and much remains unknown about the safety and effectiveness of over the counter sleep aids. Over the counter sleep aids are more readily available than prescription products and they are generally considered safe for short term use. Laying in bed and not being able to fall asleep can be super uncomfortable. Many americans turn to sleep aids to relieve their insomnia.

Numbers vary but up to a quarter of americans use some sort of sleep aid to help them fall asleep according to the american academy of sleep medicine between 6 and 12 percent of americans use over the counter otc sleep aids specifically. There are options available for people in search of a good night s sleep. So on balance natrol has been the most reliable over the counter sleep aid for me for some time now and is the one i m most likely to use when i have a bad patch of insomnia. Accordingly many people feel safer choosing over the counter sleeping pills instead of going to their physician for medication.

But in my opinion if melatonin works well enough on its own there s no need to add more and more ingredients. Luckily there are plenty of over the counter options that can help you take back your full night of rest. This is the so called hangover effect. There is no proof that they work well for insomnia and they can cause some drowsiness the next day.

Also prescription drugs and over the counter sleep aids may interact with other medications. Sleep isn t just important it s necessary. Otc sleep aids generally contain one of two primary active ingredients. Not only can it cause more stress and frustration in those moments but it can also lead to issues in your ability to work and focus the next day.

The over the counter stuff can work in a pinch but it s generally not good for long term use says tracey marks md psychiatrist in atlanta and author of master your sleep.