When to Take Sleeping Pills for Insomnia?

20 Apr 2023

At some point, we have probably experienced occasional sleepless nights. However, when the quest for a good night's sleep starts becoming a regular struggle, it might be a sign of insomnia. Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects many people worldwide, causing difficulty falling or staying asleep; this can lead to chronic fatigue, irritability, and problems with concentration. To help combat insomnia, many individuals turn to sleep pills. In today's blog post, we'll discuss when to take sleeping pills for insomnia, their benefits, and potential risks.

Identifying the Severity of Your Insomnia

Before deciding to take sleeping pills like Zolpidem or Zopiclone, it's crucial to identify the severity of your insomnia. Insomnia is classified into two types: acute insomnia and chronic insomnia. Acute insomnia is short-term and often triggered by stress or changes to your regular sleep routine. These episodes typically last for a few days to a couple of weeks. Chronic insomnia, on the other hand, persists for a minimum of 3 nights a week for three months or longer.

For acute insomnia, simple changes to your sleep environment and routine may help regulate your sleep. However, if you are experiencing chronic insomnia, it may be necessary to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options, including sleeping pills.

Consultation with Healthcare Professionals

If you've identified that you may have chronic insomnia, consulting a healthcare professional is essential before starting any type of medication. They can help you pinpoint the cause of your insomnia and recommend appropriate treatment options. During the consultation, discuss any existing health conditions or medications you're currently taking, as they can affect the safety and effectiveness of sleeping pills.

A healthcare provider will typically recommend lifestyle changes or cognitive-behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) as the first line of treatment. However, if those options prove unsuccessful, they may prescribe sleeping pills for a short period to regain a healthy sleep cycle.

Choosing the Right Sleeping Pill for Your Needs

Various types of sleeping pills are available, each with its benefits and risks. When prescribed for insomnia, it's essential to know the specifics of the medication and if it aligns with your needs.

Over-the-counter sleep aids, such as antihistamines, can temporarily relieve acute insomnia but are not recommended for long-term use because of their potential side effects.

Prescription sleeping pills like benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepines, and melatonin receptor agonists target different areas in the brain. Depending on the specific medication, they can help you fall asleep or stay asleep. Following your healthcare provider's directions for proper use, including dosage and duration, is crucial.

Risks and Precautions

Though sleeping pills can offer relief to individuals who have insomnia, it's essential to consider the potential risks and side effects. Some common side effects include dizziness, headache, daytime drowsiness, and dry mouth. More severe risks include allergic reactions, sleepwalking or performing other activities while not fully awake, and dependence on the medication.

To minimize the risks:

1. Follow the dosage instructions: Sleep medications should be taken as the doctor prescribes. No matter how restless or unsettled you may feel, it is important not to take more than the recommended dosage. Overdosing on sleep medication can cause serious side effects and, in some cases, even death.
2. Avoid alcohol while on sleep medication: Consuming alcohol while taking sleep medication increases the risk of side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. This combination can also increase the risk of accidents and injuries while performing daily tasks.
3. Only take medication when necessary: Sleeping pills are usually prescribed for short-term use to help people overcome temporary sleep problems. However, it is important not to become dependent on these medications since long-term use can lead to addiction and severe withdrawal symptoms.

While sleep medications can effectively treat short-term sleep problems, they should be taken cautiously. Follow the dosage instructions, avoid alcohol, and only take medication when necessary to minimize the risks and ensure a good night's sleep.