Over-the-counter sleep aids can be good, but they can also be dangerous. You need to decide if they will aid you, or harm you. In general, they aren’t that great for chronic insomnia. Changes in your lifestyle are much more likely to be effective for that. If, however, you are starting a new shift at your job or are traveling to a different time zone and suffering from jet lag, these nonprescription medicines can be extremely helpful.

Before you take anything, you should speak to your physician. This is particularly important if you are presently on prescription medication or have a severe ailment. While you don’t require a prescription for OTC tablets, your physician can help you decide what is best to take and what is the right dose for you. You also may resolve that you will be better off with a prescription drug.

The two main kinds of over the counter sleep aids are diphenhydramine and doxylamine. Doxylamine is unisom. There are several people who should not take this, such as pregnant and breastfeeding women and individuals who currently have or have a history of enlarged prostrates, peptic ulcers, asthma, glaucoma, and bronchitis. The other kind, diphenhydramine, includes products such as Tylenol PM, Sominex, and Bennadryl. Again, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid this, as should people with a history of enlarged prostrate, glaucoma, or heart problems. If you do take one of these types of pills, you should avoid driving and other tasks that need vigilance afterwords.

Many individuals are curious about natural sleep aids, trusting that they are safer than other kinds. However, just because something is natural doesn’t mean that it is safe. You should talk to your doctor before taking these, especially if you are taking a prescription or have a medical issue. More research needs to be done on these natural dietary supplements, but there are two that seem promising.

One is melatonin. Melatonin is something that your body makes naturally to help regulate your internal clock. Not all individuals create sufficient amounts of melatonin however. Things such as shift work and jet lag can interfere with your body’s ability to produce as much as you require. The other dietary supplement you should consider is valerian. You can get this in tablet or tea form. It is believed generally safe, but the advice about talking to your doctor beforehand still holds.

It is critical to remember that these are only instruments to help you get a great night’s rest. They are not remedies. They should be used smartly. This means that you should work with your physician. Don’t take more than the recommended dosage of anything and don’t combine them with alcohol or other pills. Be aware of any side effects that you have, and be sure that you are using them as a short term aid.

Insomnia is a serious problem that affects many individuals. if you’re seeking insomnia relief tips visit natural remedies for insomnia to get ideas, tips, and the help you need to get a good night’s rest.

Tags: Sleep Disorders

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