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Do you currently suffer from insomnia or other sleeping disorders, and currently take sleeping pills to assist you? If so, have you thought of trying a more natural, alternative method, such as using melatonin?
Suffering from any kind of sleep disorder can be frustrating, and quite literally, exhausting. It is important, however that you understand the potential side effects of taking sleeping pills, whether they be prescription or over the counter. This article will discuss not only the dangers and Side Effects of sleeping pills, but will discuss the possible use of melatonin and any other natural sleep aids that may be better for you in the long run.
What are sleeping pills exactly?
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This is a good question. Sleeping pills are primarily called sedatives, or sedative hypnotics. This means that they are in a specified class of drugs used to induce or maintain sleep.
Three Types of Sleeping Pill Compound
Sleeping pills consist of three types of drugs, which are:
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, such as the drug called Xanax, are used for both anxiety and sleeping issues. It is important to note that these types of drugs can become addictive.
Barbiturates
The kind of drugs known as barbiturates, essentially depress or sedate the central nervous system, which in turn, will make you drowsy and sleep. When prescribed for short-term use, barbiturates can be used as a sleep aid. However, due to how powerful these drugs can be, in most cases, barbiturates are only used when a patient is going under anesthesia.
Hypnotics
Finally, there are hypnotics that can be purchased over the counter (OTC). These drugs, like Lunesta or Ambien, have been said to be non-habit forming. They are known to reduce the amount of time that it takes to fall asleep. Often, it is recommended when taking these drugs, that you have at least 8 hours to devote to uninterrupted sleep.
What are some Sleeping pills side effects?
First and foremost, it is important to understand that, while you may temporarily relieve and sleeping issues in the short term, prolonged use of any sleeping pills, whether they be Over the counter sleeping pills, or strong sleeping pills given to you by a doctor’s prescription can pose serious health risks in the long run.
One of the most common side effects of any sleeping pill is taking slower breaths and breathing less deeply. If you have breathing issues such as asthma, or suffer from diseases like COPD, it is not recommended that you take a sleeping pill unless absolutely necessary. Other Sleeping Pills Side Effects include, but are not limited to :
- Burning or tingling of your extremities.
- Constipation or diarrhea.
- Appetite changes.
- Dizziness and balance problems.
- Gas, stomach pain, or tenderness.
- Unusual or very vivid dreams.
It is important that if you experience any of the above side effects that you contact your doctor immediately. It is also important to note that prolonged use of any sleeping pill can increase your risk of heart disease, cancer, or other serious illnesses.
What are some alternative and natural sleeping aids that are available?
Melatonin
If you have decided that taking a prescription or over the counter sleeping medication is not right for you, but you are still needing a sleep remedy, you will want to look for an alternative solution such as melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that is found naturally in your body. Essentially, it is a natural sleep aid that is produced by your body’s pineal gland.
The Pineal Gland and Melatonin
This gland is usually activated when it starts to get dark outside. Because of this, if your body is naturally producing the right amount of melatonin, your body’s melatonin levels should rise for around 12 hours per night. However, when a sleeping disorder is thrown into the mix, your body’s natural production of melatonin can be severely slowed down. This is when taking a melatonin supplement can assist.
Chamomile Tea and St. John’s Wort
Subsequently, there are other sleep aids that you can find at your local grocery or health food store. Lemon balm and drinking chamomile tea at night are mild sleep aids. However, if you start taking other natural sleep aids, such as St. John’s Wort, you should exercise caution.
This is because, even though they are natural remedies, some natural sleep aids can interfere with any other medications you may currently be taking. As with any supplement, natural or manufactured, it is of the utmost importance that you only take it as directed and pay careful attention to the dosage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as previously stated, you can see that there are many potential dangers to taking any sleeping medications, whether purchased over the counter or prescribed to you by your doctor.
Whenever possible, it is highly recommended that you pursue an alternative and natural supplement prior to committing to a potentially addictive and dangerous manufactured drug. If you have any further questions about the dangers and side effects of sleeping pills, consult with your physician or pharmacist for more information.
Where Can I buy Melatonin Sleep Meds at the Best Price?
Melatonin is not sold as a pure substance, but is contained in specific sleep medications of which there are many. My personal choice, which is only available online is Melatrol.
Get a great deal on American made, guaranteed quality Melatrol with a free bottle (LIMITED TIME OFFER) by clicking here. This is a far better melatonin compound than any I have found at my local pharmacy.
