If you're looking for a safe, effective sleep aid, there are several over-the-counter options available. Here's a look at some of the most popular choices.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Your body produces it naturally, but levels can drop as you get older. Supplementing with melatonin can help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
Diphenhydramine
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can make you drowsy. It's the active ingredient in popular OTC sleep aids like Benadryl and Unisom. Diphenhydramine can be effective, but it can also cause morning grogginess.
Valerian Root
Valerian root is an herbal remedy that has been used to treat insomnia for centuries. It's thought to work by increasing levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a type of herbal tea that's often used as a natural sleep aid. Chamomile contains apigenin, a compound that binds to receptors in your brain and has sedative effects.
While there are many safe and effective over-the-counter sleep aids available, it's always best to talk to your doctor before taking any medication. They can help you choose the best option for your needs and make sure there are no potential interactions with other medications you're taking.
There are many different factors to consider when choosing a sleep aid. The first is to consider your sleep needs. If you have difficulty falling asleep, you may want to try a sleep aid that contains an anti-histamine such as diphenhydramine. If you have difficulty staying asleep, you may want to try a sleep aid that contains an ingredient such as melatonin.
It's also important to consider the ingredients in the sleep aid. Some ingredients, such as diphenhydramine, can cause dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Other ingredients, such as melatonin, can cause headaches and grogginess upon waking. Be sure to read the label carefully and choose a sleep aid with ingredients that are safe for you.
Finally, consider the side effects of the sleep aid. Some sleep aids can cause drowsiness and should not be used if you are driving or operating machinery. Others can cause restless legs syndrome. Be sure to read the label carefully and choose a sleep aid that does not have any side effects that would be harmful for you.
