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Over-the-Counter (OTC) Sleep Aids
Contributed by: Melanie Nivens, Pharm.D. Candidate
KU School of Pharmacy
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Many people find they have difficult sleeping at one time or another. When you're looking for and over-the-counter product to help you sleep, which one should you choose? How do they work? Is there a difference?
How do they work?
Most products contain diphenhydramine, the active ingredient found in Benadryl®. Some products contain doxylamine. Diphenhydramine and doxylamine are FDA approved to treat insomnia in adults and children over the age of twelve. They are also used as antihistamines which are used for allergic reactions, to help stop a runny nose associated with cold and allergies, and are found in many over-the-counter cold and allergy products. One of the most common side effects caused by these medications is drowsiness, making them useful for insomnia. Other side effects associated with the products include dry
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mouth and dizziness.
Which product do I choose?
Choosing a product at your local pharmacy can be confusing. There are so many choices--how do you know which one is for you? Some products such as Advil® PM or Tylenol® PM contain a combination of a pain reliever and diphenhydramine. If the reason you are having difficulty sleeping is because of pain, these may be good choices for you. If you are not experiencing any pain, there is no reason to take products which contain medication you don't need. In many cases, you may already have some Benadryl®
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(or its generic equivalent) in your medicine cabinet. This product will be just as useful for difficulty sleeping, even though the packaging does not list this use.
Who should not use products containing diphenhydramine or doxylamine?
Patients with glaucoma
Elderly patients--this population has an increased risk for experiencing adverse effects
If you are already taking an antihistamine--this can result in increased adverse effects as well
If you are experiencing insomnia for longer than 2 weeks
For additional information talk with your pharmacist or physician.
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Balls Hen House Pharmacies
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8120 Parallel Parkway
Kansas City, KS 66109
(913) 334-1660
6238 N. Chatham Road
Kansas City, MO 64151
(816) 746-1475
1015 N.E. Rice Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
(816) 525-1479
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13600 S. Blackbob
Olathe, KS 66062
(913) 782-2039
2724 W 53rd St
Fairway, KS 66205
913-236-4983
6900 W. 135th Street
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 814 WELL (9355)
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Sprint Campus
6450 Sprint Parkway
Overland Park, KS 66251
(913) 315-8646
Merriam Town Center
5800 Antioch Rd.
Merriam, KS 66202
(913) 831-4140
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