There are different types of sleep aids available, including natural sleep aids, over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids, and prescription sleep medications. Here are some details about each type:
Natural Sleep Aids:
- Natural sleep aids are over-the-counter supplements that are usually plant-based, a vitamin or mineral already present in our diets, or supplemental amounts of something produced by the body.
- Examples of natural sleep aids include lavender essential oil, melatonin, valerian root, tryptophan, ginkgo biloba, and L-theanine.
- While natural sleep aids are generally considered safer than OTC and prescription medications, they can still have side effects and may interact with other medications.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding people should use caution with natural sleep aids, as many ingredients have not gone through rigorous testing in this population.
Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids:
- OTC sleep aids are available without a prescription and can be used to treat insomnia and other sleep issues.
- Examples of OTC sleep aids include melatonin, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, and valerian.
- OTC sleep aids can have side effects, such as dizziness, disturbed coordination, and excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Chronic use of OTC sleep aids can be problematic, especially for elderly adults, as our metabolism slows down as we age, which extends the half-life of medications and prolongs their effects.
Prescription Sleep Medications:
- Prescription sleep medications are available only with a doctors prescription and are typically used for short-term treatment of insomnia.
- Examples of prescription sleep medications include benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, and orexin receptor antagonists.
- Prescription sleep medications can have side effects, such as dizziness, headache, and nausea, and can be habit-forming.
- Prescription sleep medications should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Its important to note that even natural sleep aids are intended to be a short-term solution, and if youre regularly experiencing trouble sleeping, its best to talk with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions. Additionally, before taking any sleep aids, its important to review your other medications and the potential for interactions between them and the sleep aid, as well as to understand your sleeping problems and evaluate if they may be caused by an underlying condition.
