The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that four out of ten (4/10) people do not get enough sleep. As a result, the entity’s creation of World Sleep Day serves as a reminder of the relevance of the issue. With so many people in the world suffering from a lack of quality sleep, the amount of rest-inducing drugs is high. In the short term, a sleeping pill can help you. However, it is critical to know the action of these drugs and their pitfalls. Today, let’s discuss sleeping pills side effects.
Its important being aware of the potential negative effects of sleeping drugs, their harmful action on your health, and also the possible addiction to these substances.
We also describe natural alternatives that help your sleep health in the long term, these possibilities are free of side effects, have formulas that are not aggressive to the body and decrease the risk of allergies.
With this information, you can avoid misusing these sedatives and invest in your sleep in the best way.
What are the sleeping pills side effects
Sleep medications are categorized as “sedative hypnotics”. This is a specific class of drugs used to fall asleep; within this category are benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and various hypnotics.
The main mechanism of action of benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and hypnotics is similar: They are analogous to the action of the neurotransmitter GABA, the agent responsible for inhibiting the central nervous system.
Because of this more fluid action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a depressive effect is caused, because this substance acts directly on the activities of the CNS (central nervous system).
In addition, these drugs can interfere with breathing, and are contraindicated for those with chronic lung problems, such as asthma, emphysema, or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Other possible side effects of sleeping pills are:
- Attention problems;
- Burning or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs;
- Changes in appetite;
- Constipation;
- Daytime sleepiness;
- Diarrhea;
- Dizziness;
- Dry mouth or throat;
- Gas;
- Headache;
- Heartburn;
- Memory problems;
- Mental dullness;
- Problems with balance;
- Stomach pain or tenderness;
- Uncontrollable agitation of a body part;
- Unusual dreams;
- Weakness.
In case of serious reactions, discontinue use and seek medical advice urgently. To avoid any of the consequences listed above, you can find natural supplements with sleep actions according to your need.
The Hidden Risks of Sleeping Aids
While sleeping aids, including various types of prescription sleeping pills, have become a common solution for many struggling with insomnia, they come with their own set of concerns. Over a specific period of time, relying on these pills can lead to increased blood pressure and other adverse health conditions. Furthermore, there is the risk of becoming dependent on sleeping pills.
While sleeping medicine offers relief to those battling insomnia, it’s not without risks. Another alarming consequence that some individuals experience is “sleep driving.”
Those who attempt to stop taking sleeping pills might experience withdrawal symptoms and rebound insomnia, where sleep disturbances become even more pronounced than before starting the medication. It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects and consult with healthcare professionals about the benefits and risks, especially if one has underlying health conditions.
What are the natural alternatives for sleeping pills
To improve sleep you should always prefer healthy habits, such as: a good diet, regular exercise, and techniques such as sleep hygiene. Together, these practices help effectively and without harming the body.
If you want to optimize your sleep, from induction to duration and quality, the consumption of natural supplements is the ideal solution. Among the most indicated for this purpose are Ashwagandha, Glycine, Melatonin, PEA and Valerian.
These supplements help with sleep quality because they work with their respective mechanisms in a natural way, without harming your body, decreasing the possibility of dependence, and also helping other parts of the body in which they act. Check out the benefits of each one below:
- ASHWAGANDHA: From studies, it has been diagnosed that Ashwagandha is a sleep-inducing compound, decreases latency, improves quality, and is commonly used by patients with anxiety and insomnia. In addition to these sleep benefits, with consumption you can also feel a difference in the immune system, as it is rich in alkaloids, lactones, and saponins.
- GLYCINE: People dissatisfied with their daily sleep were studied by the Ajinomoto Group. Before going to bed, one group was given glycine while the other was given a placebo. The next morning, the amount of fatigue was assessed. The glycine group reported feeling more refreshed the next day and being less tired than the placebo group. In addition to this benefit with fatigue, glycine is known as a natural sleep inducer, making it more suitable than drugs with numerous side effects.
- MELATONIN: The main reason to look for melatonin supplements is to increase the quality of sleep: it helps in the fight against insomnia and allows you to sleep better and longer. Melatonin can also be used to treat seasonal depression due to its ability to regulate the circadian cycle. This disorder is more common in winter, particularly in areas where the season is longer, and causes depression, excessive sleep, and other problems.
- PEA: It is believed that the use of PEA can stimulate AEA (N-arachidonoylethanolamine) receptor signaling, recovering the function of the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for facilitating the induction of non-REM sleep and acting on the activation of other receptors, causing improvement in sleep quality as well.
- VALERIAN: Valerian contains sesquiterpene components such as valerenic and isovaleric acids, which have relaxing and sedative qualities as well as a tranquilizing effect, making it effective for treating insomnia and enhancing sleep quality.
Those who suffer from some sleep disorder such as insomnia or choose to sleep less in order to work or study more, can develop a variety of illnesses and diseases that are dangerous to their health.
If you can’t adjust your habit, consider using supplements to improve sleep quality. Nightly rest is essential for the body’s recovery and growth.