Does the effect of sleeping pills lessen over time? What are some natural alternatives?

Question

It takes me about three hours to fall asleep, and I wake up spontaneously during the night. So I took half of a Unisom sleeping pill last night at about midnight, and I slept hard for twelve hours, right through my alarm. I still feel sleepy, like I could sleep for a whole day. That was the first time I'd ever used sleeping medication, so I'm wondering if this extreme effect will lessen if I continue to use it.
Also, I'd like to know if there's a natural, healthy alternative to sleeping pills that won't "knock me out" like this.
Thanks everyone!

Answer 1

yes, unisom, uses a simple antihistamine to make you sleepy, and it will leave you groggy, but those effects do diminish with time and eventually it will not work for you anymore.
There are alot of good natural alternatives like, Valerian root, Kava kava, chamomile, and a number of other herbal products that aide in sleep without all the nasty side effects later. Check out your local supplement store.

Answer 2

I'm not an expert or doctor, but I do know some people who just react badly to sleep medications, even those sold over-the-counter. There are several different herbal remedies you can try including Rescue Remedy Sleep, catnip. Calms Forte is a homeopathic remedy that may help. You might also want to talk to your doctor because waking during the night can be a symptom of something called sleep apnea, which means you stop breathing during sleep. It's easy to treat, but can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.

If you drink caffeine, try not to have any within 4-5 hours of going to bed - I know that's what keeps me up some nights.

Answer 3

First of all,you should try to find out the reason it takes you so much time to get asleep.Ιnsomnia is usually the effect of minor psychological disturbances such as anxiety neurosis,however it may be associated to more serious clinical conditions as depression.As for sleeping pills,their effect attenuates when used in a prolonged period of time.That is why their use is not suggested for more than two weeks time.The best natural substitute,in my opinion, is having a warm bath or reading some pages of your favourite book or magazine.If,however,you keep "toss and turning" just try to get up and make some steps around or have a glass of water.Wish all the best!

Answer 4

talk to your doctor about sleep medications, dont take them by yourself, it will be bad for your health

try drinking a glass of milk before you go to bed, I even like chocolate milk or with ovaltine to give it some extra vitamins

also try doing exercise during the day, this will help you feel more tired and your body wil want to sleep more to recover from the physical activity during the day

I used to have trouble with sleeping too, so I understand, I would suggest talking to your doctor about it, she can monitor you and give you pills that are appropriate for your condition and age and body type so you dont get knocked out by over the counter meds

but for me exercise and milk always does the trick, try turkey too, it has melatonin which naturally makes you drowsy, try a a turkey sandwich and some milk at night to help you feel sleepy

good luck

Answer 5

Valerian (herb) works well.
http://www.1001herbs.com/
Valerian Root has been used as a sleep aid for over 1,000 years. Its ability to help relax the central nervous system, promote feelings of calm, decrease levels of anxiety and stress, and enhance sleep are known to millions the world over.

Answer 6

Umm... yah, your body will get used to them and the more you take it, the less affect it will have on your body. Go to the doc and ask about Lunesta like on the commercial.

Answer 7

yes. acupuncture works well so does regular adjustments by your chiropractor.