If you're one of the millions of Americans who has trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, you may be wondering how many sleep aid pills you can take. The answer is: it depends.
Over-the-counter sleep aids like diphenhydramine (Advil PM, AlevePM) and doxylamine (Unisom) are intended for occasional use only-that is, no more than a few nights in a row. These medications can be habit-forming if used too often, and they can also cause side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness.
Prescription sleep aids like Ambien, Lunesta, and Sonata are meant for short-term use only-usually no more than a few weeks. These medications can also be habit-forming, and they can cause side effects like nausea, headache, and sleepwalking.
If you're struggling with chronic insomnia, the best thing to do is talk to your doctor. He or she can help you figure out what's causing your sleeplessness and recommend the best treatment option for you.
Over-the-counter sleep aids like Tylenol PM or Advil PM are typically very safe, and you can take up to two pills per night. However, if you're taking a prescription sleep aid, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
In general, it's best to start with the lowest possible dose and increase gradually as needed. And if you're ever in doubt, always err on the side of caution and consult your doctor.
In general, it is best to start with the lowest possible dose and increase if needed. This will help minimize the side effects of the sleep aid. If you find that you are still not getting enough rest, you may need to adjust your dosage or try a different sleep aid altogether.
