Medications to Improve Sleep

Sleep becomes a very important commodity when people cannot get enough of it. Some people have trouble falling asleep while others have problems staying asleep. Counting aloud, wearing sleep shades or closing all the lights are some techniques attempted to get more sleep. Sometimes, these techniques do not work. Fortunately, certain medications exist to help improve sleep.

Quazepam

Quazepam belongs to a category of medicines called benzodiazepines. These drugs work to balance certain chemicals in the brain like serotonin, so that a person gets enough sleep. Specifically, quazepam treats insomnia. The Drugs website reports that quazepam's common effects include nightmares, a headache, drowsiness during the day, forgetfulness, nervousness, excitability and irritability. Quazepam also causes diarrhea, stomach pain, dry mouth, increased thirst, visual problems, lack of coordination and muscle weakness. Inform a physician when these effects remain for more than five to seven days.
Quazepam's serious side effects include a pounding or fast heartbeat, confusion, yellowing of the skin, anxiety, hallucinations, muscle stiffness of the jaw, neck or tongue and trouble breathing. Aggression, difficulty urinating and slurred speech are quazepam's other side effects. Quazepam is a tablet that should be taken before bed as directed.

Estazolam

Estazolam, like quazepam, is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat insomnia. The Drugs website says that estazolam's common side effects include forgetfulness, drowsiness during the day, a headache, depression, irritability, excitement, blurry vision, stomach problems and muscle weakness. Estazolam also causes depression, numbness or tingling, dry mouth and elevated thirst. Fortunately, these side effects may resolve on its own within five to seven days. Tell a physician when these side effects persist and she may alter estazolam's dosage.
Estazolam's serious side effects include body aches, trouble urinating, a fast or pounding heartbeat, easy bleeding or bruising, flu-like symptoms, hallucinations and agitation. Aggression, weakness, lack of coordination, suicidal thoughts, low fever and muscle movements of the tongue, jaw, eyes or neck are estazolam's other side effects. Estazolam is a tablet taken prior to sleeping.

Ramelteon

MedlinePlus says that ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist that works to promote sleep. Ramelteon's common side effects include fatigue, drowsiness and dizziness. Swelling of the throat or tongue, vomiting, nausea, trouble swallowing or breathing, menstrual problems and fertility problems are ramelteon's other serious side effects. Ramelteon is a tablet taken daily. Specifically, it is taken 30 minutes prior to sleeping.

References

Article reviewed by JPC Last updated on: Feb 3, 2010

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