Eyes wide shut: sleep aids

Nationwide, insomnia affects approximately 30% of the population within any given year. The frequency of insomnia increases with age and is more common in women. As adequate sleep is an important part of good mental and physical health, it is important for consumers to treat insomnia and not just "live" with it. Cost estimates related to absenteeism and traffic accidents related to insomnia are approximately $100 billion annually.

Nonprescription (OTC) medications are available to treat insomnia but there are differences between them:

Sleep aid products containing diphenhydramine are the best choice for the treatment of insomnia. Examples of these products include Unisom Sleep Gels, Sominex, and generic diphenhydramine products. The dose is 25-50mg at bedtime. Start with the lower dose and if necessary increase to 50mg.

READ the label. The amount of active ingredient varies from product to product. For example, Sominex contains 25mg of diphenhydramine while Unisom Sleep Gels contain 50mg of diphenhydramine. Generic products may save you money.

Doxylamine is another active ingredient available OTC to treat insomnia. It is contained in Unisom Tablets. Do not get confused between the two products. Doxylamine has been studied less than diphendydramine and is not the preferred treatment.

Some sleep aids like Tylenol PM also contain a pain reliever as well as diphenhydramine. These products are helpful when sleeplessness is accompanied by aches and pains.

All of the Over the Counter products are for short-term use. If insomnia persists more than 7-10 days, see your doctor.

Talk to your pharmacist about OTC sleep medications - he/she can help you choose the best one for your situation.

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS

Prescription medications are available from your doctor

Medications with a fast onset and short duration of action (to avoid excessive day time sedation) are usually preferred

Some examples are: Lunesta, Ambien, Sonata, Roserem

Other, older medications are available but they may cause residual sedation

Dietary supplements are also available OTC for the treatment of insomnia

Buyer beware - these products are not regulated by the FDA

Examples include melatonin and valerian

Studies evaluating these products have had variable results

TITLE: HEALTHY SLEEP HABITS

Eliminate naps

Follow a regular sleep pattern

Complete exercise at least 3 hours before bedtime

Avoid heavy meals or big snacks before bedtime

Avoid alcohol later in the evening

Avoid caffeine later in the day

Do relaxing activities before bedtime

Make your bedroom comfortable for sleeping

Leave the bedroom & relax activity for 20-30 minutes