Diphenhydramine (Benadryl Allergy, Nytol, Sominex, and generic). Avoid these over-the-counter sleep drugs: Side effects of some drugs can be especially bothersome for seniors: next-day drowsiness, confusion, constipation, dry mouth, and difficulty urinating. Over-the-counter drugs may not be a good choice. Kinds of sleeping pillsĪll of these pills have risks, especially for older adults: Even if an exam does not turn up an underlying cause, you should try other solutions before you try drugs. Sleep problems can be caused by depression or anxiety, pain, restless leg syndrome, and many other conditions. But recent studies suggest they have as much or more risk than the older sleep drugs. These are common causes of hospitalization and death in older people. More than double the risk of falls and hip fractures. The drugs can cause confusion and memory problems that: Seniors are likely to be more sensitive to the drugs’ effects than younger adults.Īnd these drugs may stay in their bodies longer. Sleeping pills can have serious, or even deadly side effects.Īll sedative-hypnotic drugs have special risks for older adults. On average, people who take one of these drugs sleep only a little longer and better than those who don’t take a drug. 
But studies show that this is not exactly true in real life. Many ads say that sleeping pills help people get a full, restful night’s sleep. Here’s why: Sleeping pills may not help much. According to the American Geriatrics Society, there are safer and better ways to improve sleep or reduce anxiety. Usually older adults should try nondrug treatments first. The drugs are also used to treat other conditions, such as anxiety or alcohol withdrawal.
These drugs are called “sedative- hypnotics” or “tranquilizers.” They affect the brain and spinal cord.ĭoctors prescribe the drugs for sleep problems. Almost one-third of older people in the U.S.
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