Welcome to the wild world of sleeping pills! They promise to give us the sweetest of dreams, but what happens when we wake up to a nightmare of addiction? That’s right. We’re talking about the dark side of sleeping pills – addiction. While they may seem like a harmless solution to our sleepless nights, they can quickly turn into a problem that’s difficult to shake.

Sleeping pills have been a popular remedy for people with sleep issues for decades. Insomnia, or the inability to sleep, is a common problem affecting millions worldwide. In the search for a quick solution to sleeplessness, many people turn to sleeping pills. But there is one question that many people ask: can you get addicted to sleeping pills? And can you break your sleeping pill addiction?

Are Sleeping Pills Addictive?

One of the biggest concerns with sleeping pills is their addictive potential. Addiction is a complex condition that involves a compulsive need to use a substance, even when it causes negative consequences. Addiction can occur with many types of drugs, including sleeping pills. There is enough literature to prove that long-term use of certain sleeping pills can cause addiction. 

The risk of addiction to sleeping pills depends on several factors, including the type of drug, the dosage, and the length of use. Benzodiazepines are more likely to cause addiction than non-benzodiazepines, as they have a higher potential for abuse and dependence. Long-term use of sleeping pills can also increase the risk of addiction.

The symptoms of sleeping pill addiction are similar to those of other drug addictions. They include:

• Cravings for the drug
• Inability to stop using the drug, even when you want to
• Withdrawal symptoms when you stop using the drug
• Using the drug despite negative consequences, such as impaired judgment or memory problems
• Using the drug in larger amounts or for longer than prescribed

Are There Some Other Side Effects of Sleeping Pills?

While sleeping pills can be effective in treating insomnia, they can also have a range of side effects beyond addiction. 

1. Daytime Drowsiness 

One common side effect is daytime drowsiness or fatigue, impacting an individual’s ability to function normally during the day. 

2. Decreased Cognitive Ability

Studies show that sleeping pills can lead to impaired cognitive function, memory problems, and decreased alertness. This is particularly concerning for individuals who drive or operate heavy machinery, as their reaction times may be slowed, and their ability to make quick decisions may be compromised.

3. Disturbed Sleep-Related Behaviours

Another potential side effect of sleeping pills, hinted at in many studies,  is sleep-related behaviours such as sleepwalking, driving, or eating. These behaviours can be dangerous and can lead to injury or harm to oneself or others. Additionally, sleeping pills can lead to changes in mood, such as increased depression or anxiety, which can further impact an individual’s ability to function normally during the day.

4. Certain Health Conditions

There is evidence that the long-term use of sleeping pills can increase the risk of developing certain health conditions, including dementia and cancer. While the exact mechanisms behind these associations are still being studied, it is clear that the risks associated with the long-term use of sleeping pills should be carefully considered before beginning treatment.

Learn about other effective ways to help you sleep better.

What Are The Different Types Of Sleeping Pills?

There are several types of sleeping pills, which can be broadly classified into the following categories:

1. Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are a type of sedative-hypnotic medication that acts on the central nervous system to induce sleep. Examples of benzodiazepines include lorazepam, alprazolam, and diazepam. These drugs are highly effective in inducing sleep but can also be highly addictive and have a high potential for abuse.

2. Non-benzodiazepine sedatives: Non-benzodiazepine sedatives, also known as “Z-drugs,” include medications such as zolpidem, eszopiclone, and zaleplon. These drugs are similar to benzodiazepines in that they act on the central nervous system to induce sleep but have a lower potential for abuse and dependence.

3. Melatonin agonists: Melatonin agonists are medications that work by mimicking the effects of the hormone melatonin, which helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Examples of melatonin agonists include ramelteon and tasimelteon.

4. Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as trazodone and doxepin, can be used as sleep aids, particularly for individuals who also have symptoms of depression or anxiety.

What Is The Best Sleeping Pill?

Now you know all the potential side effects of sleeping pills, you must make the best choice.  While many options exist for treating insomnia and other sleep disorders, melatonin supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years. 

Research has shown that melatonin can be an effective sleep aid, with several advantages over traditional sleeping pills. First, melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the body that regulates sleep-wake cycles. This means that taking melatonin supplements is less likely to cause side effects than other medications, which can have a range of potential risks and drawbacks.

Second, melatonin is highly effective in treating insomnia, particularly when used in conjunction with other behavioural interventions. One study found that melatonin supplements improved sleep quality and duration in 71% of participants with insomnia, with minimal side effects. Another study found that melatonin was as effective as traditional sleeping pills in improving sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep) while also improving sleep quality and reducing daytime drowsiness. 

Melatonin supplements like Somno are a safe and effective option for treating insomnia and other sleep disorders, with several advantages over traditional sleeping pills. While individual results may vary, many people find that melatonin helps them to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer without the side effects and risks associated with other medications.