Over The Counter Medicine To Help You Sleep At Night
Sleep is important for our overall health and wellbeing. It helps us to rest and recharge, and without it, we can experience a variety of negative effects on our health. Unfortunately, many people struggle with getting a good night's sleep, and it can be difficult to know what to do to improve the situation. One option is to use over the counter (OTC) medicine to help you sleep at night. In this article, we'll look at some of the most popular OTC sleep aids and how they work.
What are Over The Counter Medicine for Sleep?
Over the counter medicine for sleep are medications that don't require a prescription from a doctor. They are typically used for short-term relief of insomnia, and they work by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, increasing total sleep time, and improving sleep quality. Some common types of OTC sleep aids include antihistamines, melatonin, and valerian root.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used as sleep aids because they can cause drowsiness. They work by blocking histamine, which is a chemical in the body that promotes wakefulness. Common antihistamines used for sleep include diphenhydramine (found in Benadryl), doxylamine succinate (found in Unisom), and hydroxyzine (found in Vistaril).
While antihistamines are generally considered safe for short-term use, they can cause side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, and daytime drowsiness. They can also interact with other medications, so it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking them.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body to regulate sleep-wake cycles. It's also available in supplement form as an OTC sleep aid. Melatonin supplements work by increasing the amount of melatonin in the body, which can help to regulate sleep-wake cycles and promote sleep.
While melatonin is generally considered safe for short-term use, it can cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and nausea. It can also interact with other medications, so it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking it.
Valerian Root
Valerian root is an herbal supplement that has been used for centuries to promote sleep and relaxation. It works by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which is involved in promoting calmness and reducing anxiety.
While valerian root is generally considered safe for short-term use, it can cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and upset stomach. It can also interact with other medications, so it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking it.
Conclusion
When it comes to OTC medicine to help you sleep at night, there are several options available. Antihistamines, melatonin, and valerian root are all popular choices, but it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication. Additionally, it's important to remember that OTC sleep aids are only intended for short-term use and should not be relied on as a long-term solution for insomnia.