Sleep Aids

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Sleep Aids

Sleep Aids and Pain Relief

Natural Sleep Aids

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Sleep Aids

Quality sleep refreshes the body and is vital for good health. Yet many Americans do not get enough sleep, and about 70 million have problems sleeping on a regular basis. Many have chronic insomnia, which means they either can't get to sleep, can't stay asleep, or the quality of their sleep is poor.

What sleep aids can I buy without a prescription?

Over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids are recommended for short-term sleep problems that only happen once in a while. Sleep aids should not be used by pregnant or nursing women, babies or children without a healthcare provider's permission. Some common ingredients in sleep aids are:

Diphenhydramine and doxylamine: These are sedating antihistamines that help make people sleepy. Side effects may include daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness and memory problems.
Melatonin: Helps control the body's sleep-wake cycle. It may help treat jet lag or reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. Common side effects include daytime sleepiness, dizziness and headaches.
Valerian: May reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. Seems to help people sleep better. Side effects may include headache, stomach upset, mood swings and heart problems.
Ask your Walgreens pharmacist to help you find a sleep aid for your needs.

Are OTC sleep aids addictive?

No. OTC sleep aids, such as diphenhydramine and doxylamine are not habit forming. However, they do cause drowsiness, so use caution if you are driving a car or operating heavy machinery if you still feel sleepy when you get up in the morning. Speak with your healthcare provider or Walgreens pharmacist before taking a sleep aid.

Sleep Aids and Pain Relief

What can I do for aches and pains that keep me up at night?

If pain is the main reason you are unable to fall asleep or stay asleep, talk to your healthcare provider about the source of your pain. Pain is how your body lets you know something isn't quite right, so don't ignore it.

Here are some tips that may help ease your pain:

Do some light stretching or yoga before bedtime.
Try taking a warm bath or shower to soothe sore muscles.
Use a pillow designed to keep your neck aligned to reduce the risk of pain.
Use a heating pad on the achy area, but don't fall asleep with the pad still on to prevent accidental burning.

Talk to your healthcare provider if your pain is severe, lasts for several days, is a new type of pain, makes you feel queasy, gives you a severe headache or causes you chest pain. OTC pain medications like acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen can help minor aches or pains feel better in the short term. Many pain products come in a nighttime version. They contain medication plus a sleep aid, such as diphenhydramine, to help make you sleepy.

Natural Sleep Aids

There are several natural remedies that may help you sleep better, from melatonin and herbal supplements to simple lifestyle changes.

How does Melatonin help with sleep?

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate your sleep cycle by sending the message to your brain that it's time for bed. Studies show that dietary supplements containing melatonin may help with jet lag and sleep disorders.

How can I improve sleep without medication?

First, try changing your sleep habits. Go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning, and don't nap during the day. In addition, keep meals light before bedtime and avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Lastly, limit your screen time before bed – the light from backlit LCD screens on laptops, tablets and smartphones can inhibit the production of melatonin.

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