Sleeping Pills
The majority of sleeping pills are related to sedatives drugs used to treat anxiety causing a calming effect. Generally the short acting drugs of this type are prescribed as sleeping tablets, and those drugs that are longer acting for anxiety.
Sleeping drugs are generally more effective with short term insomnia or sleeping problems. They can be less effective for long term insomnia and sleeping disorders. Treatment of insomnia, or sleeping disorders with sleeping pills in the long term should not be undertaken.
Before any form of drug is prescribed it is always recommended to explore more natural methods of treating insomnia and sleeping disorders, such as cognitive behaviour therapy.
It is highly recommended to discuss any possible use of sleeping pills with your doctor and pharmacist. Pharmacists should be willing to talk with you and often have extensive knowledge about the drugs they prescribe, and could inform you about the possible side effects, and interactions of sleeping pills with other drugs you might be taking.
It can be dangerous to take sleeping pills if you have certain medical conditions:
· heart disease
· severe liver or kidney disease
· breathing or lung problems
· obstructive sleep apnoea
· psychotic states
· myasthenia gravis
· Pregnancy
The warning that accompanies all sedative drugs regarding driving and operating machinery should be taken very seriously.
Studies have shown that users of zopiclone and benzodiazepines were more likely to have a road traffic accident.
Side Effects
Some people can be more susceptible to side effects than others.
Drug Interactions - Altering effects and decreasing potency of other drugs when taking in combination. Adverse side effects. Notify your doctor of any other medication you might be taking.
Alcohol - Consumption of sleeping pills with alcohol will increase the sedative effect.
Withdrawal and Dependency
A physical and psychological dependency on sleeping pills can occur. Anxiety about coping without the use of the drug can occur. This is common when the drug has been used for long periods of time. When the drug is no longer being consumed withdrawal symptoms can start to emerge.
Dependence and withdrawal problems associated with sleeping pills generally tend to involve the benzodiazepine group, but other types of pills can also cause these problems. Due to the increased risk of dependency and the decreased effect the longer the drug is used doctors will only prescribe the drug for short periods of time
Withdrawal Symptoms
· Anxiety and depression
· Insomnia
· Muscle tension, and tight chest
· Sweating
· Trembling, shaking, dizziness, tingling in hands and feet
· Headaches
· Nausea
· Blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, noise, touch and smell
· Loss of libido
· Nightmares
· Restlessness
· Panic attacks
· Agoraphobia.
Extreme Withdrawal Symptoms
· Hallucinations
· Paranoia
· Delusions
· Confusion
· Epileptic fits.
Doctors will advise on withdrawal programs, there are also a number of useful books on the topic.