Common sleeping pills: Ambien, Lunesta, Rozerem, and more

Straits Times Article: Bad Medicine- More cases of adverse side effects, dated 11th October 2011

It has been reported that "more patients are reporting bad side effects from taking medicine and health products. " The spike has been particularly sharp in recent years and reports have been filed with the Health Science Authority (HSA). Adverse reactions to drugs vary, ranging from minor skin allergies to life threatening heart abnormalities to hallucinations.

Therefore, it is important that people avoid buying drugs from sources that cannot be held accountable, such as over the internet.

Not to worry.

Doctors are better aware about the harmful reactions that drugs can cause. However, in some cases many are considered safe as the benefits they bring outweigh the health risks.

Depending on the seriousness of the condition, doctors will prescribe drugs for the treatment of insomnia. All insomnia medications should be taken shortly before bed. Medications should be used in combination with good sleep practices.

Listed below are some drugs that can be used to treat insomnia.

Ambien : Ambien CR helps you get to sleep within 15 to 30 minutes. You should not take Ambien or Ambien CR unless you are able to get a full night's sleep -- at least 7 to 8 hours.

The FDA has approved a prescription oral spray called Zolpimist, which contains Ambien's active ingredient, for the short-term treatment of insomnia brought on by difficulty falling asleep

Lunesta : Lunesta also helps you fall asleep quickly, and studies show people sleep an average of seven to eight hours. Don't take Lunesta unless you are able to get a full night's sleep as it could cause grogginess.

Rozerem : This is a new sleep medication that works differently than the others. It works by targeting the sleep-wake cycle, not by causing central nervous system depression. Rozerem can be prescribed for long-term use and the medication has shown no evidence of abuse and dependence.

Sonata : Of all the new sleeping pills, Sonata stays active in the body for the shortest amount of time. That means you can try to fall asleep on your own. Then, if you're still staring at the clock at 2 a.m., you can take it without feeling drowsy in the morning. However, if you tend to wake during the night, this might not be the best choice for you.

Silenor : In 2010, this  sleep medicine was approved for use in people who have trouble staying asleep. Silenor may help with sleep maintenance by blocking histamine receptors. Do not take this drug unless you are able to get a full seven or eight hours of sleep. Dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to therapy.

Benzodiazepines: These older sleeping pills (Halcion, Restoril, and others) are useful when you want an insomnia medication that stays in your system longer. For instance, they have been effectively used to treat sleep problems such as sleepwalking and night terrors. However, these drugs may cause you to feel sleepy during the day and can also cause dependence, meaning you may always need the drug to sleep.

In my opinion, medication and drugs could help you to a certain extent. However, a healthier option would be to understand your problem thoroughly and ensure you take the necessary measures to adjust your diet and do prevention.

I wish you a good night's sleep,

References: http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/insomnia-medications