New York City is known as the city that never sleeps. Although cities don't require sleep, people do. For some people, however, it's not easy to get a good night's sleep. This might be due to underlying medical problems or the result of taking certain medications. Fortunately, there are medications available to aid with sleeping problems.
Zolpidem
Drugs.com says that zolpidem is a hypnotic medication used to normalize the brain chemicals (serotonin) needed for sleep. Specifically, this drug is meant to treat insomnia for a short period of time.
Zolpidem's common side effects include dizziness, weakness, daytime drowsiness, nasal congestion, a sore throat and blurry vision. This drug also causes constipation, nausea, lack of coordination, memory loss, strange dreams and a headache. Zolpidem's serious side effects include depression, suicidal thoughts, aggression, anxiety, confusion and hallucinations. This drug can also cause agitation, restlessness, loss of inhibitions and strange thoughts.
Zolpidem should not be taken during a plane ride as the medication's effects last longer than the plane ride. Drugs.com says that trouble remembering is common if people do not get 7 to 8 hours of sleep while taking zolpidem.
Zolpidem is available as a tablet that should be taken exactly as indicated.
Triazolam
Triazolam is a benzodiazepine medication also used to treat insomnia. Specifically, it decreases brain activity so that sleep can result, says MedlinePlus.
Triazolam's common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, nervousness, problems with coordination, vomiting and nausea. Triazolam also causes lightheadedness and headache.
Avoid alcohol while taking triazolam as the combination can worsen side effects. Also, taking triazolam with such drugs as cyclosporine, ergotamine, cimetidine and antidepressants can require an alteration in triazolam's dosage to prevent drug interactions.
Triazolam is a tablet typically taken at bedtime.
Eszopiclone
Eszopiclone, like zolpidem, is a hypnotic medication used to manage insomnia. Drugs.com says that eszopiclone's side effects include headache, dry mouth, skin rash, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, dizziness and stomach pain. It also causes a bad taste in the mouth, nervousness, depression and anxiety. Eszopiclone's serious side effects include aggression, behavioral changes, suicidal behavior and hallucinations.
Taking eszoplicone while suffering from asthma, bronchitis, depression, suicidal thoughts, emphysema or liver disease might require a change in its dosage to prevent any serious side effects from occurring.
Eszopiclone is a tablet that must be taken as directed.
