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Health Information and Tools >  Insomnia: Should I Take Sleeping Pills?

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Insomnia: Should I Take Sleeping Pills?

You may want to have a say in this decision, or you may simply want to follow your doctor's recommendation. Either way, this information will help you understand what your choices are so that you can talk to your doctor about them.

Insomnia: Should I Take Sleeping Pills?

Here's a record of your answers. You can use it to talk with your doctor or loved ones about your decision.

Get the facts

Your options

  • Take sleeping pills for a short time, along with making lifestyle changes.
  • Treat your sleep problems with only lifestyle changes.

Insomnia can be caused by menopause or problems such as depression, anxiety, and sleep apnea. Treating these conditions may get rid of your sleep problem. This topic is for people whose sleep problem can't be treated by fixing something else.

Key points to remember

  • Sleeping pills work best and are safest if you use them for a short time along with lifestyle changes.
  • Research shows that lifestyle and behaviour changes are the best long-term choice to help you sleep well.
  • Sleeping pills may have side effects, such as daytime drowsiness and nausea.
  • A sleep medicine may not work as well when your body gets used to it.
  • You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the medicines.

FAQs

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Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.