Sleep aids are over-the-counter (OTC) remedies and prescription medications designed to promote sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), 48 percent of Americans report occasional insomnia and 22 percent experience insomnia often. While many sleep aids are considered safe when taken appropriately and may provide benefits, the NSF recommends that people with sleep difficulties make efforts to improve sleep habits. Since ingredients in sleep aids may cause side effects, a doctor's guidance is important.
Diphenhydramine
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine found in numerous OTC sleep aids. Diphenhydramine and other antihistamines may successfully improve mild insomnia symptoms for short time periods, or a maximum of two weeks. Common brand-name OTC sleep aids that contain diphenhydramine include Benadryl, Tylenol PM and Sominex.
Doxylamine
Doxylamine is another antihistamine found in numerous OTC sleep aids. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a doxylamine-containing sleep aid generally causes prompt sleepiness, or sleepiness within 30 minutes of taking it. After taking doxylamine, a person may feel drowsy for eight hours or more. Doxylamine is intended for short-term use only and should not be taken for more than two weeks without a doctor's approval. Unisom is a common brand-name OTC sleep aid that contains doxylamine.
Benzodiazepine
Benzodiazepine is an ingredient in prescription sleep aids known as hypnotics. According to the NSF, hypnotics are the preferred sleep aid medications, since they provide the the most benefits and fewest risks when compared to other sleep-enhancing drugs. Drugs containing benzodiazepine are designed to help a person fall and remain asleep. Though dosage of benzodiazepine varies, lowest needed doses are generally prescribed, since high doses increase risk of rebound insomnia--peaked sleep problems once medication use is stopped. Common brand names of sleep aid medications containing benzodiazepine include Ativan, Dalmane, Halcion, ProSom and Restoril.
Melatonin
Melatonin is an ingredient in various herbal OTC sleep aids. Melatonin is believed to help regulate the body's internal clock and lead to calmness and improved sleep. According to MayoClinic.com, melatonin-containing sleep aids are best suited to people experiencing sleep problems linked with late work schedules and jet-lag. Though commonly marketed as a sleep aid, melatonin lacks proof of safety and effectiveness.
Valerian
Valerian is an herbal OTC sleep aid ingredient intended to help a person fall asleep more quickly and sleep more soundly. While valerian is generally considered safe, the primary ingredients in valerian-containing sleep aids are often unknown or questionable.
