Question: I am an 84-year-old man and have been suffering from insomnia for several years. I am currently taking over-the-counter sleeping aids. I take one tablet before going to bed and wake up three to four hours later when I take another tablet which carries me over for another three to four hours. Is this habit dangerous if taken for a long period of time?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Most over the counter pills marketed for sleep rely on a side effect of sedation to produce drowsiness, and are not selective sleep induction agents. I generally avoid them because of the drowsiness that so often drags into the next morning, and lack of clean REM sleep.
Although the pills are not dangerous, you will probably feel more rested with a complete sleep. See your doctor and be sure that you are not awakening because of an airway obstruction or sleep apnea. Ask your wife or significant other to tell you if you snore. If so, get evaluated for sleep apnea. If not, ask your doctor for a prescription sleep aid to see if you feel better after an eight-hour sleep.
Many of us actually sleep less as we age, and somehow manage very well. An afternoon nap can help. So, do not worry, but have yourself evaluated to be sure you don't have an underlying condition. I have yet to find anyone who uses over the counter sleep aids after they have access to more selective agents under their doctor's recommendation, supervision, and prescription.
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