Many kinds of sleep aids are available without a prescription, but the ease of procuring these drugs does not necessarily guarantee their effectiveness. The drugs and herbs in over-the-counter sleep aids are safe and may provide short-term relief, but most sleep experts recommend seeing a medical provider if sleeping troubles occur three or more nights a week for a month. Chronic sleeplessness, or insomnia, actually can be resistant to sleep aids in the long run.
Varieties of Insomnia
The most common form of insomnia is called secondary insomnia. This disorder includes sleeplessness caused by other medical problems, such as depression and anxiety, chronic pain, menopause and other sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. In these cases, symptoms of insomnia go away when the primary cause is addressed. Insomnia can be caused by long-lasting emotional stress. This sleep disorder, called primary insomnia, can be fleeting or last for years, and may be treated with pharmaceuticals and therapies that address underlying emotional issues. For both of these conditions, over-the-counter sleep aids can provide some relief in the short term, but should not be used instead of receiving medical treatment.
The Power of Antihistamines
Antihistamines are the most common drug in over-the-counter medications. The most common ones are diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine. While these drugs are safe, they can cause common side effects including headaches, dizziness and blurred vision. Diphenhydramine is one of the first generation of antihistamines, but it still is considered one of the most effective sleep aids on the market, according to Sleepdex.org.
The Promise of Melatonin
Melatonin has quickly gained a reputation as a serious sleep aid. This hormone is also produced in the human body, but as a supplement it shortens the time it takes to get to sleep and may strengthen sleep architecture as well, leading to less awakenings during the night. Melatonin appears to be particularly effective for overcoming the symptoms of jet lag.
The Mystery of Herbs
Many herbs are sold over-the-counter as sleep aids. Unfortunately, little research has supported the effects of herbal sleep remedies. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not investigate the claims of dietary supplements at all. However, some popular herbs for inducing relaxation include valerian root, lemon balm and chamomile, according to the National Center for Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Be careful, as herbs may be natural but that does not mean they are safe. For example, the use of kava kava has been linked to liver damage.
Expert Recommendations
Over-the-counter sleep aids remain largely unregulated, so there are dangers as well as the possibility that they do not actually relieve the symptoms of sleeplessness in the long run. If problems sleeping persist, see a medical provider who can root out the causes of insomnia safely and without delay.
