About Over the counter Sleep Aids

Overview
Anyone suffering from insomnia understandably may be tempted to turn to sleep aids. They can be helpful in the short term, but sleep aids should be used sparingly and only as needed.

Types
Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine, is the main ingredient in over-the-counter sleeping pills, according to Harvard Medical School. This includes name-brand sleep aids like Tylenol PM and Excedrin PM as well as Alka-Seltzer PM, Simply Sleep, Unisom and Sominex, the latter of which is an alternative to allergy medicine Benadryl. Many---but not all---over-the-counter sleep aids also contain a pain reliever.

Side Effects
Over-the-counter sleep aids do carry the risk of side effects. Some of most common side effects are dizziness, daytime drowsiness, headaches, fatigue, vomiting and reduced alertness.

Older Adults
Sometimes falling sleep becomes more difficult with age. According to helpguide.org, however, older adults must be cautious when taking over-the-counter sleep aids, as they've been associated with nighttime falls and injuries. Taking naps may be a better alternative for seniors. If taking a sleep aid is absolutely necessary, it's best to start with a smaller-than-recommended dosage.

Drawbacks
Dr. David White, director of the sleep disorders division at Brigham and Young Women's Hospital, notes that over-the-counter antihistamines tend to dry out the nose and mouth and also have a tendency cause lingering grogginess during daytime hours. Helpguide.org adds that some people become dependent on over-the-counter sleep aids and may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking medication.

Herbal Supplements
Troubled sleepers can consider taking natural sleep remedies, which are widely available at health food and nature stores as well as on the shelves of many well-stocked grocery stores. Choices range from melatonin to valerian. Drinking green tea---which contains GABA-elevating L-theanine---is another consideration, according to wholeliving.com.