Is Long-Term Use of Sleeping Tablets Safe?

Is Long-Term Use of Sleeping Tablets Safe?

use of sleeping tablets

Sleeping tablets are generally not safe for long-term use. You can definitely use them occasionally whenever you struggle with sleep, but avoid becoming habitual of taking sleeping pills every night.

When you first start taking sleep aids, they can feel like a miracle. You will start sleeping soundly. But after some time, your body will adapt to the dose, and eventually you will feel the need to take more pills.

Key Risks of Taking Sleeping Medication for a Long Time

1. Your Body Might Demand More Dosage After Some Time

What worked perfectly at first gradually loses its effectiveness. You might find yourself needing higher doses to achieve the same results. 

2. Risk of Dependency

Psychological and physical dependence can develop within just a few weeks of regular use. You might notice that you can’t fall asleep at all without your pill, or you feel anxious just thinking about going without it.

3. Your Memory and Thinking Can Get Foggy

Long-term users often report difficulties with concentration, memory formation, and decision-making. It’s like your brain is constantly operating through a slight haze, even during the day. 

4. The Rebound Effect Hits Hard

Try to stop after months of use, and your insomnia often comes back worse than before. This rebound insomnia can be so uncomfortable that many people simply resume taking the medication, creating a cycle that’s tough to break.

5. Masking Underlying Issues

Insomnia is often a symptom of something else (anxiety, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome). Pills treat the symptom, but they don’t fix the cause.

Which Sleeping Pill Is Dangerous?

Basically, all sleeping pills are dangerous if you take them regularly. However, experts suggest that prescribed drugs like benzodiazepines and Z-drugs are dangerous as they can cause memory loss, dependence, and risk of cognitive decline if you don’t use them under the observation of a specialist.

What Happens if You Take 3 Sleeping Tablets?

You should be cautious while taking sleeping tablets. They can be fatal in case of overdose.  

Your breathing can slow to dangerous levels. Sleep medications depress your central nervous system, and tripling your dose can suppress your respiratory drive to the point where you stop breathing adequately during sleep.

Extreme sedation can make it nearly impossible to wake you, even in an emergency. You might fall into a state deeper than natural sleep, putting you at risk if you vomit, experience breathing difficulties, or need medical attention.

How to Reduce the Effects of Sleeping Pills?

If you or someone else has taken too much medication, call emergency services right away. If the condition is not that bad, you can use these tips to keep the condition stable.

  • Hydrate generously. Water helps flush your system and can reduce the severity of hangover effects. 
  • Expose yourself to bright light, preferably natural sunlight. This signals your brain that it’s time to be alert.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel completely clear-headed. The effects of sleeping pills can last much longer than you realise.
  • Avoid coffee. It will make your mind and mood worse.
  • Take your medication only when you can commit to a full 7-8 hours of sleep, and avoid taking it too late in the night.

Best Long-Term Solution for Insomnia

These are the tips to fight insomnia or sleep disturbances naturally without using any medication. 

  • Sleep hygiene: Keep your bedroom cool (around 65-68°F), dark, and quiet. Maintain consistent sleep and wake times.
  • Address underlying causes: Anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sleep apnea, or other medical conditions often fuel insomnia. Treating these root causes can resolve sleep problems without medication.
  • Mind-body techniques: Meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and breathing exercises can calm your nervous system naturally. Try different apps and online programs.

Pharma Drop Online Pharmacy Can Provide You with Necessary Medications on Time

Pharma Drop is the online pharmacy in the UK that offers convenient access to necessary sleep medications and treatments when you need them. With proper prescriptions and guidance from your healthcare provider, you can receive medications delivered directly to your door.