Health Information and Tools >  Medicine or Other Drug Use and Sleep Problems

Main Content

Medicine or Other Drug Use and Sleep Problems

Overview

Many prescription and non-prescription medicines can cause sleep problems. A few examples of these medicines are:

  • Antidepressants.
  • Cold medicines.
  • Steroid medicines.
  • Non-prescription diet aids.

Other substances

Other substances that may cause sleep problems include:

  • Alcohol. At first, drinking alcohol may cause sleepiness. Many people may drink alcohol to help them go to sleep. But when you drink alcohol, you are more likely to awaken later in the night.
  • Caffeine. Drinking a cup of coffee or other caffeine-containing beverage during the day can cause sleeplessness. Caffeine can stimulate the body for 3 to 7 hours and can interfere with your sleep as long as it remains in your body. Even the small amount of caffeine in decaffeinated beverages can interfere with sleep.
  • Nicotine, which can disrupt sleep and reduce total sleep time. Smokers report more daytime sleepiness and minor injuries than do non-smokers, especially in younger age groups.
  • Illegal drugs such as cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines.

Credits

Current as of: March 1, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Donald Sproule MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine
Lisa S. Weinstock MD - Psychiatry
Mark A. Rasmus MD - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, 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.