Resolving Sleeplessness

Whether it's in the bottom of a bottle of pills, a glass of wine, or a cup of herbal tea, many of us are searching for a good night's rest.

Sleeplessness was the topic of this month's Healthline, sponsored by South Jersey Healthcare and The Daily Journal.

Michele M. Dawson, a registered pharmacist at South Jersey Regional Medical Center answered two of your questions on the subject.

Question: Do all of the over-the-counter sleep aids have the same main ingredient and are they addictive or can you build up a tolerance to them?

Answer: The main ingredient of over-the-counter sleeping pills is an antihistamine. Antihistamines are generally taken for allergies. Histamine is a chemical messenger in the brain, which promotes wakefulness, so an antihistamine also has the effect of making you feel very sleepy. Some over-the-counter sleep aids also include a pain reliever. Common OTC sleep medications include:

# Diphenhydramine (found in Nytol, Sominex, Sleepinal, and Compoz)

# Doxylamine (Unisom, Nighttime Sleep Aid)

Over-the-counter sleep aids are meant to be used for short-term insomnia. Tolerance to the medication -- which means you need a higher dosage of the medication for it to work -- can develop in only a few days.

It's common to experience dizziness, dry mouth or prolonged drowsiness when taking these medicines.

Don't assume an over-the-counter medicine is safe for all people, Dawson said.

Sleep aids can be harmful to people with glaucoma, heart conditions, enlarged prostate, asthma, bronchitis, peptic ulcers, depression, Parkinson's disease or emotional/psychiatric disorders, Dawson said. The medicine can sometimes aggravate these conditions.

Women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding also should not take these medicines, she said.

Some people prefer to seek a natural remedy, but Dawson urges people to apply the same caution as if they were taking a medicine.

Natural options may adversely interact with some medicines a person is taking.

The most common natural remedies are melatonin and valerian.

Melatonin is found within the body, Dawson said.

It's inconsistent as a sleep aid, she said, noting it works best for those seeking temporary relief such as shift workers or those suffering from jet lag.

Valerian is derived from a plant. It does make a person drowsy, but Dawson said it not always an effective sleep aid.

The drowsy feeling it causes may continue through to the following day.

Both melatonin and valerian come in a pill form.

It's very short-acting," Dawson said. "It's for people who are having problems falling asleep -- it won't help you continue to sleep all night."

If you take any sleep aid -- natural or pharmaceutical -- do not combine it with alcohol.

Read all the directions on the package and be sure to check with your pharmacist or physician to make sure it won't interact with other medications you are taking. Do not use sleep aids every night, Dawson said. It is possible your sleep problem could be something more serious, such as insomnia.

Q: It has been six years of sleepless nights for me. I get four hours of sleep and that is not a sound four hours. I may sleep one hour and lie awake another hour before I sleep again.

I have tried drinking warm milk, going to bed the same time every night for several weeks, eating a banana before bed, sleepytime tea, exercise (walking) in afternoon, warm baths, reading, doing puzzles all night, and drinking red wine with no improvement. Finally, I ended up taking Lunesta for two weeks. It did not make me tired or sleep at all. I also tried Ambien and then Ambien CR. Is there any help for me?

A: For chronic insomnia, a good sleep environment, relaxation and behavior techniques provide relief without risk of medication side effects or tolerance. In general, sleep medications are most effective as temporary aid, not a long-term solution.

Patients who have little improvement during the initial trial of cognitive behavioral therapy, pharmacologic therapy, or combination therapy may have other causes of poor sleep. Therefore, it is important to follow prescribed medication instructions for recommended duration of time by the physician.

Avoid caffeinated beverages from coffee, tea, soft drinks and chocolate after lunch late in the day.

Avoid alcohol near bedtime. Never drink alcohol in an attempt to fall asleep faster. Not only will alcohol disrupt your sleep even more, it can dangerously interact with the sleeping pill.

Only take sleep medications when you will be able to get a full night's sleep (seven to eight hours). Ask your doctor for specific instructions for decreasing or stopping use. In some cases, stopping medication abruptly can cause uncomfortable side effects and even rebound insomnia.

The bedroom should be reserved for sleep -- not for reading, eating, or doing puzzles.

If your own attempts to solve your sleep problems are unsuccessful, your doctor may be able to help with sleep problems caused by a sleep disorder, medication side-effects or interactions or illnesses.

Melatonin is found within the body, Dawson said.

It's inconsistent as a sleep aid, she said, noting it works best for those seeking temporary relief such as shift workers or those suffering from jet lag.

Valerian is derived from a plant. It does make a person drowsy, but Dawson said it not always an effective sleep aid.

The drowsy feeling it causes may continue through to the following day.

Both melatonin and valerian come in a pill form.

It's very short-acting," Dawson said. "It's for people who are having problems falling asleep -- it won't help you continue to sleep all night."

If you take any sleep aid -- natural or pharmaceutical -- do not combine it with alcohol.

Read all the directions on the package and be sure to check with your pharmacist or physician to make sure it won't interact with other medications you are taking. Do not use sleep aids every night, Dawson said. It is possible your sleep problem could be something more serious, such as insomnia.

Q: It has been six years of sleepless nights for me. I get four hours of sleep and that is not a sound four hours. I may sleep one hour and lie awake another hour before I sleep again.

I have tried drinking warm milk, going to bed the same time every night for several weeks, eating a banana before bed, sleepytime tea, exercise (walking) in afternoon, warm baths, reading, doing puzzles all night, and drinking red wine with no improvement. Finally, I ended up taking Lunesta for two weeks. It did not make me tired or sleep at all. I also tried Ambien and then Ambien CR. Is there any help for me?

A: For chronic insomnia, a good sleep environment, relaxation and behavior techniques provide relief without risk of medication side effects or tolerance. In general, sleep medications are most effective as temporary aid, not a long-term solution.

Patients who have little improvement during the initial trial of cognitive behavioral therapy, pharmacologic therapy, or combination therapy may have other causes of poor sleep. Therefore, it is important to follow prescribed medication instructions for recommended duration of time by the physician.

Avoid caffeinated beverages from coffee, tea, soft drinks and chocolate after lunch late in the day.

Avoid alcohol near bedtime. Never drink alcohol in an attempt to fall asleep faster. Not only will alcohol disrupt your sleep even more, it can dangerously interact with the sleeping pill.

Only take sleep medications when you will be able to get a full night's sleep (seven to eight hours). Ask your doctor for specific instructions for decreasing or stopping use. In some cases, stopping medication abruptly can cause uncomfortable side effects and even rebound insomnia.

The bedroom should be reserved for sleep -- not for reading, eating, or doing puzzles.

If your own attempts to solve your sleep problems are unsuccessful, your doctor may be able to help with sleep problems caused by a sleep disorder, medication side-effects or interactions or illnesses.

SOURCE

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.

Restocore Popularity Sweeping as Best Over the Counter Sleep Aids

Do you know that the National Sleep Foundation has revealed that key stress factors have prompted a 7% increase in prescribed sleeping medications dispensed since 2007? Because of this, many people are choosing to place their trust in safe, non habit-forming and side effect free sleep aids, like Restocore, which is currently becoming the best over the counter sleep aids. To know more about Restocore read the article below.

More Americans are suffering from sleeping pattern disturbances, according to recent statistics that have been released. The amount of people in the US who are taking prescribed meds to sleep better at night has drastically increased over the past few years. But many are now turning to the power of all-natural sleep-aids, like Restocore, to balance their body's rhythm and sleeping patterns, because unlike prescription drugs - the usages of which are marred by side effects, addictiveness and difficulty waking up, or grogginess - natural sleep-aids don't rely upon risky chemicals to induce sleep, and they don't have any known drug interactions.

According to a recent news article that was published in the Sun Times on October 8th of 2009, the article purports that there has been a whopping 30% rate of documented sleeping pattern disturbances in the US population this decade--as well as a 7% overall increase in medications being dispensed since 2007.

"In these stressful times, nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population complains of disturbed sleep patterns, according to a survey by the National Sleep Foundation. And sales of sleep medications are on the rise - 56,287,000 prescriptions were dispensed last year, a 7 percent increase since 2007, data from IMS Health shows." (Source: Sun Times, 10/08/2009)

Gillian Fallows, Restocore spokesperson, contests that this rise in sleeping disturbances is commonly attributed to the amounts of rising stress in a society that is facing a turbulent economy and far greater stresses on the home front in recent times.

"More people are stressing over getting their bills paid on time, assuring that they will arrive at work the next day and still have their jobs, and many are experiencing much higher levels of stress overall than we saw during the 90s--a relatively calmer decade by comparison," Fallows says.

Stress and anxiety are often paralleled with insomnia, according to Fallows.

"When the mind is stressed and overwhelmed, quite often this can inhibit sleeping patterns, leading to bouts of insomnia, and this can just make dealing with your situation that much worse," Fallows explains. "With all-natural Restocore, the body doesn't have to rely upon potentially dangerous and expensive drugs to induce sleep, it comes naturally, safely and affordably, in a simple, over-the-counter supplement that truly works!"

Restocore is a breakthrough natural cure for insomnia that utilizes the science of nature to naturally-induce a healthy sleeping pattern and cycle by using high-quality and non habit-forming ingredients to combat insomnia and restless nights.

Restocore incorporates effective ingredients such as Melatonin and Valerian Root that are proven to relax the body and naturally induce sleep, as well as the perfect combination of Serotain, Passion Flower, and Chamomile, which work naturally to synchronize the daily patterns and rhythm of the body.

Most people report significant results within the first two to four weeks of daily usage, when used as directed.

You can learn more about this revolutionary, all-natural and non habit-forming sleep-aid at: http://www.Restocore.com.

About Restocore:

· Developed by Pharmaxa Labs--a leading nutraceutical company

· Utilizes all-natural, high-quality and non habit-forming ingredients to combat insomnia and restless nights

· Incorporates effective ingredients such as Melatonin and Valerian root that are effective in relaxing the body and inducing sleep

· Contains the perfect combination of Melatonin, Valerian, Serotain, Passion Flower, and Chamomile--which work naturally to synchronize the daily patterns and rhythm of the body

· A non habit-forming, scientifically-proven, all-natural remedy for insomnia, sleeping disorders, and sleep deprivation symptoms that doesn't cause any potentially harmful, adverse side effects

· Developed as the most scientifically-advanced, cutting-edge, non-prescription sleep-aid product available today

· Wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle your day, not drugged and groggy

· 100% safe, effective and all-natural

· Visit them online for generous discounts off retail pricing and to learn more at: http://www.Restocore.com

5 Reasons Why Over the Counter Sleep Aids are Popular

Prescription sleeping medication like Rozerem seems promising without the problems of dependence and rebound insomnia. However, people continue to look to OTC sleep aids as alternatives. These may not boast the same effectiveness as prescription sleeping medication and their hangover side effects are infamous. Here are the 5 actual reasons observed why OTC sleep aids are still very popular.

1. It's convenient. That's obvious. The most popular ones are the antihistamines that have FDA's approval for use as OTC sleep aids so you don't have to get a doctors' prescription. It is a recognized fact today that having the occasional or transcient insomnia due to work or lifestyle circumstances is common. OTC sleep aids are recognized to be useful in such situations. The only problem is that some people might start to rely on them out of habit and take them long term instead.

2. There are less surprises. These antihistamines have been around for a long time, much longer than the popular prescription sleeping medications like Ambien and Lunesta. Antihistamines are decades old while non-benzodiazepines like Ambien emerged in the 1990s. Hence, the probability of unknown dangerous side effects is much lower for antihistamine OTC sleep aids.

As it is, doctors are usually wary of new sleeping medications that have not stood the test of time. This is one of the 2 major objections from prescribers that any drug company faces when marketing a new medication. Painful lessons were learnt with the withdrawal of drugs like Vioxx, the painkiller and Avandia for diabetes.

It must be noted however that supplement OTC sleep aids differ from antihistamines. Supplements do not require FDA approval as over the counter sleep aids and hence, long term safety have not been documented all along.

3. The lesser evil. The side effects of OTC sleep aids are deemed the lesser evil. Most people put up with the infamous hangover side effect or have simply adapted how they take the OTC sleep aids e.g. smaller doses or just sleep earlier and longer. Granted these hangovers and other related side effects can be extreme for some people. However, next day drowsiness seems less bizarre than unconsciously sleepwalking on prescription sleeping medications. FDA has recently required that stronger warnings were added to sleeping medications' labels about these side effects that can be life threatening.

4. Cheaper than a can of coke. An OTC sleep aid costs only 30-40 cents compared to Lunesta at $3-$4 a tab. People are happy to resolve their sleeplessness at lower cost and lower risks. Cost is always a major deciding factor if the additional benefits of prescription sleeping medication don't measure up to the price difference.

5. Instant lifestyle. Change is constant and fast for this sleepless 24/7 generation. We want both instant gratification and instant solutions for our stress filled lives. OTC sleep aids are readily pocketed along with our Blackberrys and iPods.

It goes without saying that there is no magic panacea for insomnia. Over the counter sleep aids are best used for the occasional insomnia at recommended doses. You will develop tolerance if used longer than necessary. As with prescription sleeping medications, OTC sleep aids must be taken responsibly i.e. being aware of possible drug interactions with any current medication, resolving the underlying cause of insomnia, etc.

Source

Sleep Aids Sales Rises

MORE than one in four Americans say they are literally losing sleep over the economic downturn — tossing and turning over personal finances, the economy, job security or health care costs.

Those were the results of a poll released last month by the National Sleep Foundation, a nonprofit group financed by federal and private sources that include health care companies like Merck, Wyeth and Johnson & Johnson and mattress makers like Sealy.

It is little surprise, then, that some over-the-counter sleeping pills have been doing a brisk business in recent months.

In the four-week period that ended March 22, sales of Advil PM tablets, which combine a sleeping aid with a pain reliever, were up 16 percent compared with the same period a year ago, according to Information Resources Inc., whose totals do not include sales at Wal-Mart. The brand’s year-over-year increases for the previous four weeks were even sharper, rising 33 percent, and were up 26 percent the month before that.

Sales of Tylenol PM, the leading pain-relieving sleeping pill, were up 6 percent year-over-year for the month that ended March 22, according to Information Resources, a market research company in Chicago.

There is plenty of sheep-counting even in the best of financial times. The National Institutes of Health estimates that 30 percent of Americans have trouble sleeping and 10 percent have some form of insomnia; their daytime symptoms include moodiness as well as impaired concentration and memory.

But economic factors do weigh heavily. A survey done by the market research firm Experian Simmons in 2008 found that those with household incomes under $25,000 were 48 percent more likely than the general population to have sleep disorders, and those with no employed adults in the household were 45 percent more prone.

According to a recent report by the market research firm Packaged Facts, the age group most likely to suffer from insomnia are people 55 to 64 years old, who may suffer from arthritis or other ailments and are 26 percent more likely than the average consumer to buy pain-relieving sleep aids.

“Not only does this age group have to deal with the pains of getting old, but they are also most affected by the financial crisis, a huge headache in and of itself,” the Packaged Facts report said.

•

In an Advil PM television ad now running broadly — by Grey New York, part of the Grey Group division of WPP — a couple on a camping trip tuck into side-by-side sleeping bags — hers blue with the Advil PM logo, his red like Tylenol PM packaging.

Then, a third pajama-clad actor, holding a lantern outside the tent, announces it is the “middle of the night,” and the woman is shown sleeping peacefully while the man rubs his lower back and neck, grimacing.

“With Advil PM, she’s spending less time lying awake with aches and pains, and more time asleep,” the actor says. “He should switch to Advil PM. Maybe you should switch too.”

Sales of Advil PM, which was introduced in 2006, grew 17 percent in 2008, making it the fastest growing product for Wyeth Consumer Healthcare, whose overall sales for the year were “slightly down,” according to Doug Petkus, a spokesman for the company. The company has done comparative ads that mention Tylenol PM since Advil PM’s introduction, he said.

Nearly two decades ago, Tylenol PM was the upstart, challenging Excedrin PM, which introduced the first nighttime pain pills in 1969. In 1992, the year after Johnson & Johnson introduced Tylenol PM, a judge dismissed a lawsuit by Excedrin PM claiming that its new competitor’s use of “PM” and its packaging constituted a trademark violation.

Representatives from both McNeil Consumer Healthcare, the Johnson & Johnson division that makes Tylenol PM, and Novartis Consumer Health, which makes Excedrin PM, declined requests for interviews.

Packaged Facts estimates the entire over-the-counter sleep aids market for 2008 at $604 million, and painkilling sleeping pills account for 61 percent of that ($370 million). Leading the nighttime analgesics market is Tylenol PM, with a 50 percent share, followed by Advil PM (23 percent), store brands and other private labels (19 percent) and Excedrin PM (7 percent), according to Packaged Facts.

The active ingredients in most over-the-counter sleeping pills are antihistamines, like those in allergy pills. Sominex, Advil PM, Tylenol PM and Excedrin PM all contain diphenhydramine — the same active ingredient as Benadryl, an allergy medicine. (Benadryl describes diphenhydramine on its label as an “antihistamine” while the sleeping pill labels describe it as a “sleep aid.”)

•

Dr. Phyllis Zee, director of the sleep disorders program at Northwestern University, says she has had patients for whom over-the-counter pills have been effective, but she added that the medicines were not risk-free and discouraged using them more than occasionally.

“If you take something like Advil PM intermittently when you have pain and can’t sleep, that’s a reasonable approach,” Dr. Zee said. “But I don’t think there really have been long-term studies to look at their safety and efficacy when taken on a long-term basis.”

In a 2005 report about insomnia, the National Institutes of Health cited “significant concerns about risks” of such antihistamine sleeping pills, including “residual daytime sedation, diminished cognitive function and delirium, the latter being of particular concern in the elderly.”

For those lying awake worrying about money, meanwhile, one way out of their financial predicament might be to develop solutions for people lying awake worrying about money.

Packaged Facts projects that sleeping aids — not just medication but a host of products including herbal supplements, travel aids like neck pillows, sound machines and sleep masks — will continue to grow as much as 10 percent annually through 2013.

Source

Over the Counter Sleep Aids - What you need to know

Are you suffering from insomnia? Or are you having trouble getting sleep, or staying asleep? If yes, read the article entitled Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids: Learn about OTC Sleep Aids - What you need to know to get your sleep cycle back on track by Edith Brent. Read the article below.

If you regularly find yourself having trouble getting to sleep, or staying asleep, then you may be suffering from a sleep disorder. These disorders are broadly covered under the term 'insomnia' but the truth is that every single one is different. Many people search for quick answers, but do over the counter sleep aids provide you with what you need?

Often, these sleep aids come in the form of sleeping pills. There are a number of different types available without prescription. They are very easy to take, cheap to buy, and you won't have to worry about seeing a doctor.

However, the main problem with these over the counter sleep aids is that they are drugs that can leave you feeling very groggy the next day. Although they do help you to get to sleep, you may still feel tired and find that your sleep patterns don't get back on track.

In fact, these sleeping pills come with a number of side effects. They use antihistamines, which have a number of side effects including a dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation and more.

The great news is that not all over the counter sleep aids come in the form of sleeping pills. Why not try some herbal remedies? There are a number of options available in health food shops which can include teas and aromatherapy.

It's also important to remember that your sleeping condition may be a symptom of something more serious. This is why you should always see a doctor for advice.

Sleeping pills can be useful occasionally, but finding sleep aids that really work is crucial to maintaining the right cycle of sleep.

It's important to learn how to find the right treatment for insomnia, one that does not rely on drugs but that really gets your sleep cycle on track. Check out the top sleep aids for chronic insomnia and try using one that isn't based on medication.

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Can over-the-counter sleep aids help cure insomnia?

Are you suffering from insomnia but don't wanna go and visit a doctor? Have you been taking over-the-counter sleep aids and hope to be cured by it any time soon? Do you wish to confirm the truth about OTC's and insomnia? If yes, read the article entitled Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids: Learn about OTC Sleep Medication by Michael Bihari of About.com. Read part of the article below.

In general, OTC sleep medications are most effective when you use them in moderation for a short period of time. OTC sleep aids do not cure insomnia, and if used incorrectly, can cause a number of sleep and medication-related problems, which (depending on the medication you are using and for how long) may include:

Drug tolerance: You may develop tolerance to your medication, meaning that you need a higher dosage of the medication for it to work. With OTC sleep medications this can develop in less than a week. Taking more of the medication increases your risk for side effects.

Drug dependence: You may come to depend on your OTC medication to sleep and may not be able to sleep without it.

Side effects: As noted above, sleep medications can cause unwanted side effects. Generally, the most common side effect of the OTC sleep medications is drowsiness the next day, which can interfere with driving and working.

If you are drowsy or dizzy, do not drive, use machinery or do anything that requires you to be mentally alert.

Drug interactions: OTC sleeping medications can interact with other medications you are taking. These drug interactions can lead to dangerous side effects, especially when used with prescription painkillers, other sleep medications and medications used to treat mental health conditions.

Do not drink alcohol while taking OTC sleep medications as it can make the side effects much worse.

Rebound sleep problems: If you have been taking an OTC sleep medication for a long time and stop the medication, your sleep problem may become worse than before.

Using the medication for the wrong condition: You may have an underlying health condition that is causing you to be agitated or to experience sleeplessness. By using an OTC sleep medication, you may not be getting the treatment you need for your condition. For example, you may be suffering from depression which can be treated with an antidepressant medication such as Zoloft (sertraline).

To read the full article, click Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids: Learn about OTC Sleep Medication by Michael Bihari of About.com

Wanna know why you feel drowsy a day after taking in an over-the-counter sleep aid? If yes, click Cause of Drowsiness After Taking Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids.

Best Over the Counter Sleeping Pills

Are you on the lookout for the only over the counter sleep aids which can transform your restless nights into peaceful sleep each night? If you are like lots of others who are suffering from sleep defects like sleeplessness then you can find an easier way to eliminate these problems through the use of trustworthy sleeping tablets. If yes read the article below written by Tracey Walker

I know the market is so much crowded with these sorts of medicines that it becomes virtually a headache for us to find the perfect one. Read further to know how you can get the most trustworthy sleeping aids without getting scammed. There are some sleeping aid brands like Tylenol Pm, Unisom and Sominex which uses antihistamine. This ingredient is also employed in all allergy drugs.

So when you use these kinds of tablets then you're feeling sleepy and knackered when you wake up in the morning. Natural over the counter sleeping aids are the best sorts of pills to try when you suffer from sleep aberrations. They don't possess any kind of side effects as in the case of above types of medical pills. One more type is sleeping tablets prescribed by your medical specialist.

These are more susceptible to complications like depression, loss of memory and daydreaming. They're actually more powerful as compared to other kinds of tablets and that's the reason why they create immediate results but also provides more complications. Now I am not telling you to duck your health practitioner for pharmaceuticals but if if you can go for natural over the counter sleeping pills. They're having few side effects in comparison to the tablets prescribed by your physician.

I know how difficult and unpleasant it is to not having sleep for consecutive days. I will feel your discomfort and suffering due to those sleep-deprived nights. So instead of living in this with this problem, I advise that you to try the natural over the counter sleeping aids which can make your restless nights peaceful and happy.

Source : Best over the counter sleeping pills

Why are over-the-counter sleep aids popular?

Do you ever wonder why most people prefer to take over-the-counter sleep aids? What are the benefits of these sleep aids? Should you consider taking over-the-counter sleep aids too? To get logical answers to these questions, I encourage you to read the article below entitled OTC Sleep Aids - 5 Real Reasons Why They Are Popular by Isabel Tay

Here are the 5 actual reasons observed why OTC sleep aids are still very popular.
1. It's convenient. That's obvious. The most popular ones are the antihistamines that have FDA's approval for use as OTC sleep aids so you don't have to get a doctors' prescription. It is a recognized fact today that having the occasional or transcient insomnia due to work or lifestyle circumstances is common. OTC sleep aids are recognized to be useful in such situations. The only problem is that some people might start to rely on them out of habit and take them long term instead.
2. There are less surprises. These antihistamines have been around for a long time, much longer than the popular prescription sleeping medications like Ambien and Lunesta. Antihistamines are decades old while non-benzodiazepines like Ambien emerged in the 1990s. Hence, the probability of unknown dangerous side effects is much lower for antihistamine OTC sleep aids...
3. The lesser evil. The side effects of OTC sleep aids are deemed the lesser evil. Most people put up with the infamous hangover side effect or have simply adapted how they take the OTC sleep aids e.g. smaller doses or just sleep earlier and longer. Granted these hangovers and other related side effects can be extreme for some people. However, next day drowsiness seems less bizarre than unconsciously sleepwalking on prescription sleeping medications. FDA has recently required that stronger warnings were added to sleeping medications' labels about these side effects that can be life threatening.
4. Cheaper than a can of coke. An OTC sleep aid costs only 30-40 cents compared to Lunesta at $3-$4 a tab. People are happy to resolve their sleeplessness at lower cost and lower risks. Cost is always a major deciding factor if the additional benefits of prescription sleeping medication don't measure up to the price difference.
5. Instant lifestyle. Change is constant and fast for this sleepless 24/7 generation. We want both instant gratification and instant solutions for our stress filled lives. OTC sleep aids are readily pocketed along with our Blackberrys and iPods.
To read the full article, click OTC Sleep Aids - 5 Real Reasons Why They Are Popular by Isabel Tay
Do you need tips in using OCT sleep aids? If yes, click Tips in Using Over the Counter Sleep Aids

Over the Counter Sleep Aids : Doxylamine

Why is this medication prescribed?

Doxylamine is used in the short-term treatment of insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Doxylamine is also used in combination with decongestants and other medications to relieve sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion caused by the common cold. Doxylamine should not be used to cause sleepiness in children. Doxylamine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

How should this medicine be used?

Doxylamine comes as a tablet to take by mouth for sleep, and in combination with other medications as a liquid and liquid-filled capsule to treat symptoms of the common cold. When doxylamine is used to reduce difficulty falling asleep, it usually is taken 30 minutes before bedtime. When doxylamine is used to treat cold symptoms, it is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Follow the directions on the package label or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take doxylamine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor or directed on the package label.

Doxylamine comes alone and in combination with pain relievers, fever reducers, and cough suppressants, If you are choosing a product to treat cough or cold symptoms, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on which product is best for your symptoms. Check nonprescription cough and cold product labels carefully before using two or more products at the same time. These products may contain the same active ingredient(s) and taking them together could cause you to receive an overdose.

Nonprescription cough and cold combination products, including products that contain doxylamine, can cause serious side effects or death in young children. Do not give nonprescription products that contain doxylamine to children younger than 4 years of age. Ask a doctor before giving these products to children 4-12 years of age.

Cough and cold symptoms that get worse or that do not go away may be signs of a more serious condition. If you are taking doxylamine in combination with other medications to treat cough and cold symptoms, call your doctor if your symptoms worsen or if they last longer than 7 days.

If you are taking doxylamine to treat insomnia, you will probably become very sleepy soon after you take the medication and will remain sleepy for some time after you take the medication. Plan to remain asleep for 7 to 8 hours after taking the medication. If you get up too soon after taking doxylamine, you may be drowsy.

Doxylamine should only be used to treat insomnia for a short time. Call your doctor if you feel that you need to take doxylamine for longer than 2 weeks.

If you are using the liquid, do not use a household spoon to measure your dose. Use the measuring cup or spoon that came with the medication or use a spoon that is made especially for measuring medication.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking doxylamine,

* tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to doxylamine or any other medications.
* tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: medications for colds, hay fever, or allergies; medications for depression; muscle relaxants; narcotic medications for pain; sedatives; sleep medications; and tranquilizers.
* tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or other breathing problems; glaucoma (a condition in which increased pressure in the eye can lead to gradual loss of vision); ulcers; difficulty urinating (due to an enlarged prostate gland); heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures,or an overactive thyroid gland.
* tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking doxylamine, call your doctor.
* if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking doxylamine.
* you should know that this medication may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
* remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication. Avoid alcoholic beverages while you are taking this medication.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Doxylamine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

* dry mouth, nose, and throat
* drowsiness
* nausea
* increased chest congestion
* headache
* excitement
* nervousness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

* vision problems
* difficulty urinating

Doxylamine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].


In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?

Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about doxylamine.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand names

* Aldex® AN
* Nighttime Sleep Aid® Tablets
* Unisom® SleepTabs

Source : Over the Counter Sleep Aids : Doxylamine

Over the Counter Sleep Aids May Mask Serious Problems

Are you new with using over-the-counter sleep aids? Are you sure that the Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids you use are safe? Do you feel the need to know that over-the-counter sleep aids may mask other serious problems? If yes, then read the article below entitled Helpful Warnings and Tips in Using Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids by Denise Mann of Medical Tribune News Service.

People in Seattle aren't the only ones who are sleepless.

In fact, insomniacs across the United States United States, officially United States of America, republic (2005 est. pop. 295,734,000), 3,539,227 sq mi (9,166,598 sq km), North America. The United States is the world's third largest country in population and the fourth largest country in area. spend more than $300 million a year on over-the-counter sleep aids, the latest statistics show.

But these products may do more than help people get some Z's; their prolonged use may mask more serious medical conditions See carpal tunnel syndrome, computer vision syndrome, dry eyes and deep vein thrombosis. , such as depression, and thereby delay proper care.

That's why insomnia that lasts a month or more should be discussed with a physician, not treated with over-the-counter sleep aids, said Dr. Charles F. Reynolds, III, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) is a leading American healthcare provider and institution for medical research. It consistently ranks in US News and World Report's "Honor Roll" of the approximately 15 best hospitals in America.

``These agents are often not very effective and may impair daytime alertness and awareness,'' said Reynolds, who co-authored a report on insomnia in Thursday's issue of the New England Journal of Medicine The New England Journal of Medicine (New Engl J Med or NEJM) is an English-language peer-reviewed medical journal published by the Massachusetts Medical Society. It is one of the most popular and widely-read peer-reviewed general medical journals in the world.

Insomnia is defined as the perception of inadequate or nonrestful sleep. It can be a symptom of depression, stress or other medical conditions.

``There is relatively little in life that doesn't have the potential for infringing on sleep, and, as people age, the ability to sleep deeply and soundly tends to diminish,'' Reynolds noted.

About 40 percent of 30 million Americans with insomnia self-medicate with over-the counter sleeping aids, such as Nytol and Unisom, according to according to
prep.

1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians.

2. In keeping with: according to instructions.

3. the National Sleep Foundation in Washington, D.C.

``For some people, over-the-counter sleeping aids are not appropriate, and they can prevent people from getting a prescription for a drug that may be more helpful,'' said Thomas Roth, chief of the sleep disorders Sleep Disorders Definition

Sleep disorders are a group of syndromes characterized by disturbance in the patient's amount of sleep, quality or timing of sleep, or in behaviors or physiological conditions associated with sleep. and research center at Henry Ford Hospital Henry Ford Hospital is a hospital located in Detroit, Michigan a few blocks from Wayne State University and the New Center area, near the Fisher Building and Cadillac Place. The hospital was founded in 1915 by Henry Ford as a philanthropic project. in Detroit.

James K. Walsh, executive director of the department of sleep medicine at St. Luke's Hospital in St. Louis, agreed.

``I certainly think that people taking over-the-counter sleeping aids should be telling their physicians and asking their advice,'' Walsh said.

Source : Over the Counter Sleep Aids May Mask Serious Problems

Do you need tips in using over-the-counter sleep aids?

Are you new with using over-the-counter sleep aids? Are you wondering if you are using your newly purchased over-the-counter sleep aids properly? Do you feel the need to know more about the proper usage of these sleep aids? If yes, then read the article below entitled Helpful Warnings and Tips in Using Over the Counter Sleep Aids by Gerrard Mackenzie.

If you decide to try out some OTC sleep aids, then it is best to follow these tips in using them:

- Consult your doctor and ask if it is safe for you to try an OTC sleep aids. Make sure that you remember his/her recommendations concerning your decision.
- Follow the directions of use and indications given. You may have to start with relatively small doses and increase them gradually.
- Make sure that you consider the other medications that you are constantly taking. Some over-the-counter sleeping pills may have adverse effects if it has interactions with other medications / chemicals that are taken into the body. Upon consultation with your sleep doctor, make it a point to inform him or her about the other medications you are taking for treatment of some other health condition.
- Remember that your actions and emotions indicate if your medication has side effects.
- Using over-the-counter sleeping drugs must be made sporadically and not regularly or on a nightly basis so that the harmful effects would also be decreased and its effectiveness would increase a bit every time you use them.
- Avoid taking other non-prescription or over-the-counter drugs and substances that may make your sleeping problems worse than it already is.
- If you are just starting on a new OTC sleep aid, you still may not be aware of how it can affect you so do not attempt to drive any vehicle or operate heavy machinery right after taking them.
- Maintain your occasional visits to the doctor.
To read the full article, click Helpful Warnings and Tips in Using Over the Counter Sleep Aids by Gerrard MacKenzie

Gerrard Mackenzie is the author of the eBook Supercharge Your Sleep and has taught thousands of the stressed-out, tired and overworked how to overcome their sleeping difficulties and get a better night's rest. He is also a great promoter of the power nap.

Wanna know what non-benzpdiazepine over-the-counter sleep aids are? If yes, click Benefits of Non-benzodiazepine Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids

What are the benefits of Non-benzodiazepines over Benzodiazepine OCT sleep aids?

Have you heard the words Benzodiazepine and Non-benzodiazepine when talking about over-the-counter sleep aids? Do you wanna know what they are and how your knowledge of their existence can benefit your choice of quality over-the-counter sleep aids? If yes, read the article below entitled Over the Counter Sleep Aids by Gary M. Miller.

The most common medication on the market today are the Non-benzodiazepines and they are favored because they are less addictive than their counter parts or "Benzodiazepines". The Non-benzodiazepines are short-term sedatives which include Ambien, Lunesta and Sonata. They help make an individual feel sleepy and are a little safer and more efficient than Benzodiazepine which is typically addictive.

The Benzodiazepine drugs bring about drowsiness and target the central nervous system so they are more powerful but they are a risk in terms of addiction and are therefore better avoided if at all possible. You are advised to take these only for a few days because long term use will result in dependence on the drug and also to memory gap, feelings of more anxiety and difficulty in moving around during the day. Barbiturates are also popular in this category though very seldom used because they can lead to an overdose and to serious abuse over long periods of time.
One over-the-counter alternative is a drug which targets the melatonin receptors of the brain thus resulting in a change of the body is sleep clock. This is considered to be a wiser choice in getting one to fall asleep but not necessarily as helpful in keeping you asleep. This type of drug may also post some side-effects just like the rest, but it is generally a good alternative to the OTC drugs.
Some anti-depressants are also prescribed by doctors to alter the problems with depression that often lead to the problem of not falling asleep. Anti-depressants are popular drugs but should also be taken with caution as they carry intense side effects that can also lead to further complications. Most drugs that are being used in the treatment of sleep disorder contain anti-histamines that can really make you sleepy, but they are generally used for the treatment of allergies. Brands like Nytol, Unison and Sominex are common over-the-counter drugs that contain anti-histamine.
To read the full article, click Over the Counter Sleep Aids by Gary M. Miller

Curious about the effectiveness of over-the-counter sleep aids? If yes, click Sleep Quality with Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids

Can over-the-counter sleep aids produce quality sleep?

Are you having difficulty sleeping at night? Do you wanna know if over-the-counter sleep aids can really put you to sleep? If it does, do you wanna know if over-the-counter sleep aids can give you quality sleep? If yes, read the article below entitled Over the Counter Sleep Aids and Why You Should Avoid Them by J. Wall.

"The problem is that over the counter sleep aids that rely on antihistamines do not produce quality sleep. People who use them tend to wake up groggy. They report not feeling well rested and yes while feeling somewhat rested may seem better than not rested at all, this is not ideal. As far as the body's health is concerned not getting quality sleep, that is going through all the stages of sleep properly, can be almost as bad as not getting sleep. Each stage of sleep provides a different function and benefits for the body so missing out on any throws things off and robs you of the necessary function of that stage. Antihistamine induced sleep tends to affect those stages.

Another problem is that over the counter sleep aids have all the side effects of antihistamines. The drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, etc. are all possible results from taking these drugs. Taking this causes a host of new problems for you.
Over the counter sleep medication also doesn't work for everyone. Some people have an opposite reaction to these drugs though that is rare. In those cases though, using an antihistamine will actually keep you awake rather than help you sleep. Also, not everyone gets drowsy enough by an antihistamine to fall asleep if they are suffering from a stronger form of insomnia. Particularly if you already use antihistamines to control allergies. Your body may already be used to the drug and have adjusted to its effects."
To read the full article, click Over the Counter Sleep Aids and Why You Should Avoid Them by J. Wall
Curious about other people's experiences with over-the-counter sleeping aids? If yes, click Experiences with Over-the-Counter Sleeping Aids

Wanna read about a personal experience on over-the-counter sleep aids?

Do you wanna know more about other people's experiences with over-the-counter sleep aids? Are you curious about what sleep aids they used and how well it helped them get to sleep? Do you wanna know if they experienced any side effects of these OCT sleep aids the way you did? If yes, then read on the article below entitled To Sleep: Perchance to Take Lots of Pills by Seth Stevenson. I learned a lot from his article. I hope you'll get to read it too. Here are some parts from one of his personal stories.

"Can sleep aids beat it? On a recent trip to Japan, I arrived in Tokyo in the afternoon, then needed to get a good night's sleep (despite a 14-hour time difference) and wake up for a 9 a.m. meeting. Basically, an impossible task. I took a Unisom Maximum Strength SleepGel (50 mg of diphenhydramine hydrochloride) in Tokyo at 11 p.m., when it felt like midafternoon for me, and it actually worked OK. I managed to stay asleep until 6:30 a.m., which was better than I'd hoped for, and I made it through the day. Thanks, Unisom!
The next night, still wickedly lagged, I took two Simply Sleep caplets (together, another 50 mg of diphenhydramine hydrochloride—same as the Unisom), but only managed to sleep until 5:45 a.m. I blame it on the sheer momentum of jet lag, not the pills.
On the third night, as a control, I took no pills and woke up at 4:30 a.m. Unacceptable. So I took two Simply Sleep caplets and managed to sleep until 9:30 a.m. Perfect. Except I should have taken one caplet—I might have avoided the severe grog that plagued me all day and made interaction with Japanese people an even greater effort.
Conclusion: These pills are not a bad way to deal with jet lag, in an emergency. Also, there's no chemical difference between Unisom Maximum Strength SleepGels and Simply Sleep, yet there are two important distinctions. 1) Unisom's "gel" is much nicer going down—the Simply Sleep actually caught in my throat half-dissolved and tasted so bad that I gagged. 2) You can't split Unisom Maximum Strength's dose—it's one gel that can't be cut in half—while Simply Sleep's two caplets give you more flexibility for a half-dose (25 mg) if you're scared of feeling out-of-it when you wake up."
To read the full article, click To Sleep: Perchance to Take Lots of Pills by Seth Stevenson

Wanna know the labeling standards for over-the-counter sleep aids? If yes, click Labeling Standard for OTC Sleep Aids

What are the labeling standards for over-the-counter sleep aids?

Do you find it easy to understand the labels on your over-the-counter sleep aids? Do you get to find the answers to your questions about its use and precautions? Would you wanna know the information you should be asking about your regular OTC sleep aids? If yes, then read the article below entitled Sleep Aids -Labeling Standards by Health Canada.

CATEGORY: Sleep Aids

DESCRIPTION: An over-the-counter drug (tablet, capsule, caplet, powder, or elixir form) that is useful for the relief of occasional sleeplessness by individuals who have difficulty falling asleep.

MEDICINAL INGREDIENTS and CONCENTRATIONS/DOSAGES on OTC Sleep Aids:

All finished products as well as ingredients used in the manufacture of the product comply with specifications of a Schedule B pharmacopoeia or equivalent standard
The medicinal ingredients of a product complying with this standard consist of the following when used singly, within the established limits:

1. DIPHENHYDRAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE
   
   25 mg or 50 mg per dosage form
   
   
2. DIPHENHYDRAMINE CITRATE
   
   38 mg or 76 mg per dosage form

ADEQUATE DIRECTIONS FOR USE on OTC Sleep Aids:

Indications:

• the inner and outer label shall show a statement of the indication for use limited to one or more of the following:

1. Helps you (reduces time to) fall asleep if you have difficulty falling asleep;
   
   
2. For relief of occasional sleeplessness;
   
   
3. Helps to reduce difficulty falling asleep.
   
   
4. For the relief of occasional nighttime sleeplessness (insomnia) when due to overwork, tiredness, or fatigue.

Unacceptable Indications:

Any reference to anxiety state, apprehension, worry, concern, fear, and/or tension will be unacceptable for use in association with a sleep aid / sedative product.

Dosage Directions:

For products containing diphenhydramine hydrochloride:

1. Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Take 25 to 50 mg (expressed in terms of dosage form, eg. tablets, capsules, etc., on the label, at bedtime if needed, or as directed by a physician.
   
   
2. In some persons, persisting drowsiness may be experienced with a
   50 mg dose (two tablets), in which case the medication should be subsequently reduced to 25 mg (one tablet).

For products containing diphenhydramine citrate:

1. Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Take 38 to 76 mg (expressed in terms of dosage form, eg. tablets, capsules, etc., on the label, at bedtime if needed, or as directed by a physician.
   
   
2. In some persons, persisting drowsiness may be experienced with a
   76 mg dose (two tablets), in which case the medication should be subsequently reduced to 38 mg (one tablet).

WARNINGS on OTC Sleep Aids

1. For occasional use only. (when not already mentioned in the indication)
   
   
2. Do not exceed (increase) recommended dose except on the advice of a physician.
   
   
3. If sleeplessness persists continuously for more than 2 weeks, consult your physician. Insomnia may be a symptom of serious underlying medical illness.
   
   
4. Do not take this product if you have glaucoma, chronic lung disease, difficulty in urination due to an enlargement of the prostate gland, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless directed by a physician
   
   
5. Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking this product
   
   
6. If you are presently taking a prescription drug or other medication, do not take this product without first consulting your physician or pharmacist.
   
   
7. Not to be used by elderly patients who experience confusion at nighttime. These drugs may produce excitation rather than sedation in the elderly. Therefore they should be avoided in this age group.

PACKAGE SIZE LIMITATIONS on OTC Sleep Aids

Sleep aid drug products containing diphenhydramine hydrochloride are limited to a total content of 1 gram (1 g).
Sleep aid drug products containing diphenhydramine citrate are limited to a total content of 1.5 grams (1.5g).
NOTE: This labelling standard describes those requirements that are specific to this class of drugs. Other requirements described in the Regulations to the Food and Drugs Act and in the Guide for the Labelling of Drugs for Human Use should also be met.
To check on their references, click References of Sleep Aids -Labeling Standards by Health Canada

Wanna know if OTC sleep aids can cure insomnia? If yes, click Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids and Insomnia

Why do I feel drowsy a day after taking over-the-counter sleep aids?

Have you just taken in an over-the-counter sleep aid and feel really drowsy or groggy the whole morning? Do you wanna know what's in that sleep aid, the one causing such a weird feeling? If yes, read the article below entitled Over the Counter Sleeping Pills by Herbals Home.

"The main ingredient in most over the counter sleeping pills is something in the antihistamine family. This is also the primary ingredient that causes drowsiness the next day. In fact, that drowsiness is often so severe that people commonly refer to it as a "sleeping pill hangover". This is perhaps the biggest potential problem with over the counter sleeping pills. This grogginess is usually worse than the mental fog from not sleeping. This is especially difficult for people who are not, by nature, morning people. A natural slowness in the morning, exaggerated by the effects of over the counter sleeping pills, causes many people to feel that the benefits of over the counter sleeping pills are not worth the sacrifice to the quality of their days.

Over the counter sleeping pills can be categorized into two main types: herbal remedies and antihistamines. Antihistamines work by inhibiting a neurotransmitter that will depress the central nervous system. Some of the more popular over the counter sleeping pills include Tylenol PM, Sominex, Unisom, and Equate. The most popular herbal over the counter remedy is Melatonin.
Although pharmaceutical manufacturers have addressed these concerns regarding over the counter sleeping pills and have worked to produce a product that minimizes such negative side effects, no over the counter sleeping pill is completely free of these potential problems. Everyone's body reacts differently to the drugs, so you will have to find the best over the counter sleeping pills for you based on trial and self evaluation. Your best chance at finding a satisfactory over the counter sleeping pill is to first try those in the herbal family."
To read the full article, click Over the Counter Sleeping Pills by Herbals Home

Wanna know if you can take over-the-counter sleep aids regularly, click Effects of Taking Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids

Can I regularly take over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids?

You may have recently tried taking in over-the-counter sleep aids and wondered whether you can continue to take it regularly or not. Here's a few paragraphs from an article entitled OTC Sleep Aids: What's best and what's safe? by Mayo Clinic which provides a short explanation on why or why not take over-the-counter sleep aids regularly.

Over-the-counter sleep aids or supplements may help when stress, travel or other disruptions keep you awake. If you have chronic insomnia, though, a better approach is to remove the cause — most often, by changing your lifestyle.

You've followed all the tips for getting enough sleep — sleeping on a regular schedule, avoiding caffeine and daytime naps, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Still, a good night's rest remains out of reach. You may be thinking about over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids or other sleep supplements. If your problem has been bothering you for more than a few weeks, ask your doctor for an evaluation. It's important to know what's causing your insomnia.

OTC sleep aids are effective for an occasional sleepless night. But the more often you take them, the less effective they become. And OTC sleep aids may leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day, particularly if you're an older adult. If you're considering sleeping supplements, it's important to understand that much is unknown about their safety and effectiveness.

To read the full article, please click OTC Sleep Aids: What's best and what's safe? by Mayo Clinic