Medicine To Help You Sleep Over The Counter

Are you having trouble sleeping at night? If so, you're not alone. According to the American Sleep Association, about 50-70 million Americans experience some type of sleep disorder. Lack of sleep can lead to a variety of health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter (OTC) medications available that can help you get a good night's sleep. In this article, we'll discuss some of the most common OTC medications for sleep and how they work.

What Are Over-The-Counter Sleep Aids?

Over-the-counter sleep aids are medications that you can buy without a prescription. They are usually taken in pill form and work by depressing the central nervous system. This can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, it's important to note that OTC sleep aids are not a long-term solution for insomnia. If you're having trouble sleeping on a regular basis, you should talk to your doctor.

Common Ingredients In Over-The-Counter Sleep Aids

There are several common ingredients found in over-the-counter sleep aids. The most popular include:

Diphenhydramine: This is the active ingredient in Benadryl, which is an antihistamine. It can cause drowsiness and is often used as a sleep aid.
Doxylamine: This is the active ingredient in Unisom, which is an antihistamine. It can also cause drowsiness and is often used as a sleep aid.
Melatonin: This is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body. It regulates the sleep-wake cycle and can help you fall asleep faster.
Valerian root: This is an herbal supplement that is often used as a sleep aid. It can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your sleep.

The Most Popular Over-The-Counter Sleep Aids

Here are some of the most popular over-the-counter sleep aids:

Related Medicine

Nyquil: This is a cold and flu medication that contains diphenhydramine.
ZzzQuil: This is a sleep aid that contains diphenhydramine.
Unisom: This is a sleep aid that contains doxylamine.
Advil PM: This is a pain reliever that contains diphenhydramine.
Excedrin PM: This is a pain reliever that contains diphenhydramine.
Melatonin: This is a hormone supplement that can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
Valerian root: This is an herbal supplement that can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your sleep.

Side Effects Of Over-The-Counter Sleep Aids

While over-the-counter sleep aids are generally safe when used as directed, they can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

Drowsiness: This is the most common side effect of sleep aids. It can last for several hours after you wake up.
Dizziness: Sleep aids can cause a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness.
Dry mouth: Sleep aids can cause a dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated.
Constipation: Sleep aids can cause constipation, which can be uncomfortable.
Blurred vision: Sleep aids can cause blurred vision or difficulty focusing.

Conclusion

Over-the-counter sleep aids can be an effective way to treat short-term insomnia. However, it's important to talk to your doctor if you're having trouble sleeping on a regular basis. They can help you determine the underlying cause of your insomnia and recommend a long-term solution. Additionally, it's important to follow the directions on the label and not take more than the recommended dose. If you experience any side effects, stop taking the medication and talk to your doctor.