Dependence on sleeping pills: mechanism of development, treatment

Insomnia is a common problem faced by people of all age groups. Treatment of sleep disorders is carried out comprehensively, including the prescription of medications of different groups, including sleeping pills. However, their independent uncontrolled use, incorrect choice of drug, its dose, frequency and duration of use provoke other problems. Episodic use gradually becomes systematic, and insomnia is replaced by an equally serious problem - dependence on sleeping pills.

In what cases is sleeping pills needed?

A fifth of the world's population suffers from problems falling asleep, and women are much more likely than men. This is most likely due to a tendency to depression and emotional stress.

To cope with insomnia, some drink a glass of strong alcohol at night, others brew “sleepy” sedative herbs, others simply give up on everything and take sleeping pills that act on the cerebral cortex and suppress its activity.

Interesting Facts

Few people know that remedies for insomnia very often contain narcotic substances that are addictive and require an increase in dose. It would seem that the completely harmless Corvalol and Valocordin contain about one and a half tablets of phenobarbital, also known as luminal.

The body gets used to falling asleep artificially and simply refuses to do it differently. And then barbiturate dependence occurs, one tablet no longer helps and you have to increase the number. And with abrupt withdrawal, withdrawal occurs almost the same as in drug addicts - hand tremors, severe sweating, and nausea appear.

Scientists have long proven that frequent and uncontrolled use of sleeping pills increases the risk of early sudden death and the development of cancer. Just a couple of dozen tablets a year - and the possibility of dying suddenly increases threefold! Something to think about, isn't it?

Taking a sleeping pill together with alcohol, an anesthetic or a sedative can lead to a person immediately falling from the arms of Morpheus into the dark kingdom of Hades - too often such combinations lead to intensive care at best, and to death at worst.

In addition, “sleeping pills” have many side effects, for example:

• constant sleepiness during the day;
• impaired concentration;
• “foggy” head;
• shortness of breath;
• dizziness;
• dry mouth;
• memory problems;
• constipation and urinary retention.

Thus, with the help of sleeping pills a person treats insomnia, but cripples the entire body as a whole.

Indications and contraindications

Before you take the coveted pill, think about whether it is really necessary? Dependence on sleeping pills is a much bigger problem than problems falling asleep, especially since a drug that helps you sleep only eliminates the effect, but not the cause, of insomnia.

When is sleeping pills necessary?

1. It was prescribed by a doctor as part of complex treatment.
2. Changing time zones during long flights.
3. You tried all the ways to fall asleep and the next day you went to see a neurologist, but you still need to rest.

When should you not take sleeping pills?

1. You have not studied the “Contraindications” section of the instructions.
2. Alcohol has already been taken to relax.
3. If you are going to drive the next morning.
4. No attempt has been made to solve sleep disturbance problems.

Alternative ways to combat insomnia

1. Physical exercise. Distract your brain from pressing problems with a set of aerobics about an hour before going to bed.
2. Relaxation. Try yoga, breathing exercises or meditation. Your goal is to achieve complete relaxation of the muscles that, when tense, will not allow you to fall asleep.
3. Conditions for sleeping. Create the most comfortable conditions for falling asleep - a comfortable mattress, fresh air and no TV at night.
4. Avoid stimulants in food and drinks. Everyone knows about tea and coffee - they have a tonic effect. But chocolate, some brands of red wine, aged yellow cheeses, Chinese food and spicy Korean salads are also endowed with the same properties.
5. Stop smoking! Nicotine before bedtime stimulates the areas of the brain that are responsible for its activity, after which a person cannot fall asleep or wakes up in the deep sleep phase.

Types of drugs

In every pharmacy you can buy sleeping pills without prescriptions for sound sleep. If you are not a doctor and have no idea what medications will help you sleep, then it is best to visit a doctor first and only then go for the medicine.

Depending on the manufacturing method and composition, medications are divided into several groups.

Vegetable

This is not a remedy for insomnia, but rather a sedative that reduces anxiety. After taking the medicine, the process of natural inhibition of the nervous system begins, emotional stress decreases, problems fade into the background, and the person can calmly fall asleep.

Sedatives are not addictive, they have virtually no side effects, and an overdose is not dangerous and does not lead to fatal consequences. But their effect is short-lived and short-lived.

Synthetic

A strong sleeping pill made from chemical components. These medications include barbiturates, tranquilizers, and benzodiazepines.

Unfortunately, they have many adverse reactions of the body and contraindications. Despite the fact that they are very effective, experienced and qualified specialists try to prescribe them as rarely as possible.

Combined

These products contain both herbal and synthetic components. The well-known Corvalol and Valocordin are just that.

Homeopathic

Such funds are currently in great demand. How much they can help is unknown to science, since official medicine does not recognize homeopathy in principle. Nevertheless, our pharmacies sell dozens of homeopathic medicines.

They are considered to be completely harmless and do not have any side effects on the body, but the calming effect is obvious - you can relax and fall asleep peacefully.

Causes of insomnia

Most often, insomnia is not an independent pathology, but a symptom of neurological or psychological diseases. Sleep phase disturbances are often associated with the following neurological diseases:

• vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• cervical osteochondrosis (when certain nerve roots are pinched between the vertebrae - the so-called “radicular syndrome”), in addition to insomnia, can also provoke headaches, impaired vision and hearing, etc.;
• cerebrovascular accident - can be a consequence of traumatic brain injury, or haunt a person from birth - for example, due to birth trauma or incorrect birth;
• disruption of the functioning of neurons for one reason or another.

Psychiatric causes of insomnia:

• Chronic alcoholism leads to serious problems not only of a psychiatric, but also of a neurological nature - due to regular intoxication, hundreds of thousands of neurons die, the psyche weakens - depressive and anxiety disorders appear, and delirium can begin. Insomnia in people with alcohol dependence is common;
• anxiety-depressive disorder, provoked by a violation of the production of neurotransmitters, also leads to disturbances in sleep phases: the patient often wakes up at four to five o’clock in the morning, while he falls asleep after midnight;
• obsessive-compulsive disorder often causes sleep problems;
• Eating disorders are accompanied by many symptoms, including increased anxiety, self-harm, insomnia, and psychosomatic disorders.

Of course, insomnia can also plague people who have not been diagnosed with neurological or psychiatric problems. This situation is not uncommon. Such patients are looking for a way to purchase drugs to improve sleep. It is impossible to purchase really strong sleeping pills without a prescription from a doctor.

The best over-the-counter sleeping pills for sound sleep - a review of drugs

Let's look at the most popular gentle remedies that help you relax and sleep. And most importantly, they do not contribute to addiction.

"Sleep Formula" from Evalar

This phytocomplex in tablet form is recommended for diseases of the nervous system. In its composition you can find plant components - motherwort, eschscholzia and hops, B vitamins, as well as magnesium carbonate.

The product can be used as a source of vitamins in case of their deficiency and as a dietary supplement for people:

• those suffering from shallow sleep and frequent waking up;
• with increased irritability and excitability;
• with difficulty falling asleep.

Contraindicated for expectant mothers and nursing mothers, as well as for those who may develop allergic reactions to one of the components.

The course of treatment lasts a month and involves taking two tablets before bedtime.

Persen Night

Valerian, lemon balm and mint are the very herbs that will help you fall asleep. And to make it easier for you to take them, medicinal capsules of a sedative drug, which also has a calming effect, will help you.

If you have difficulty falling asleep, irritation and nervous excitability, then it is likely that Persen Night can help you. It has virtually no contraindications and does not cause drowsiness during wakefulness.

It should not be used by expectant and nursing mothers, children under twelve years of age, or those with gallbladder problems.

Novo-Passit

Combined herbal preparation with sedative functions.

It contains the following herbs:

• valerian;
• Melissa;
• St. John's wort;
• hawthorn;
• passionflower;
• hop;
• elder.

It has a sedative and anti-anxiety effect, which promotes sleep quite well. It is very effective, especially in syrup form - it is absorbed much faster.

What is most valuable is that the medicine does not require long-term use; it can be used once as needed.

But there is also a fly in the ointment:

• daytime drowsiness and depression, especially if the dose is exceeded;
• does not interact with alcoholic beverages;
• should be used with caution by those who have serious gastrointestinal problems
• not suitable for children.

Dormiplant

The drug contains only two plant components - valerian and lemon balm. It is available in tablet form; for 50 tablets you need to pay approximately 400 rubles.

Has the following actions:

• reduces causeless anxiety;
• eliminates anxiety and nervous tension;
• promotes sleep;
• improves sleep quality.

What good can you say? The results are noticeable after just a few days of use; a person falls asleep much faster, sleeps peacefully and without disturbing sudden awakenings. If necessary, it can be given to children over 6 years old, pregnant and lactating women. Most importantly, it is not addictive or addictive.

But there are also negative points:

• may cause allergies;
• depending on individual characteristics, you may feel a decrease in performance, lethargy;
• You cannot drive a car or operate dangerous machinery;
• high price for tablets that contain only two very common herbs.

Melaxen

The hormone melatonin is responsible for the cyclical rhythms of the body. With its deficiency, a person suffers from insomnia. Even a child understands that if something is missing, then its quantity needs to be increased.

Melaxen has the following pharmacological actions:

• normalizes the circadian rhythm;
• stabilizes the “wake-rest” cycle;
• speeds up falling asleep;
• makes sleep calm and deep;
• reduces the number of awakenings in the middle of the night;
• helps the body adapt to long flights and time zone changes;
• reduces stress.

It is mainly prescribed as a sleeping pill, as well as an adaptive remedy.

Cannot be used by pregnant women or during breastfeeding.

In addition, it is contraindicated if a person suffers from:

• autoimmune diseases;
• leukemia;
• lymphoma;
• epilepsy;
• diabetes mellitus;
• renal failure.

If you take any hormonal drugs, glucosteroids, cyclosporine, MAO inhibitors, then it is better to avoid Melaxen, since it is incompatible with them.
The drug has a rapid disintegration period, which is a definite plus - if the dose is exceeded, no significant damage will be caused to the body. And the best part is that the natural cycle will not be disrupted. Restful, deep sleep without nightmares. There is no feeling of drowsiness during wakefulness, you can get behind the wheel, concentration is at the level.

Among the disadvantages, one can note the high cost - about 700 rubles for 24 tablets - and the occurrence of allergies in those who are susceptible to it.

Donormil (Sonmil)

Available in the form of film-coated tablets or “pops” that quickly dissolve in water, which only increases absorption. With its help, you can speed up falling asleep, ensure long and restful sleep, and reduce nervous tension.

May cause dry mouth, difficulty waking up, daytime weakness and drowsiness. Because of this, it is not recommended to drive a car, service dangerous machinery, or engage in work that requires concentration the next day.

If a person is susceptible to sleep apnea - snoring, then it is better for him to refrain from using this drug, since breathing delays will only increase. But Donormil can be used by pregnant women without fear for the health of the unborn baby.

Trypsidan

One of the best drugs for older people. Produced in India. It can also be taken by children from the age of five.

The main components are extracts and extracts of herbs that promote rapid sleep, reduction of nervous tension, and a balanced state. Their action is gentle and effective.

If you notice drowsiness during the day, the dosage can be reduced. There are no special contraindications; it can be used even during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Passidorm

A homeopathic medicine in the form of a solution that helps with falling asleep and prevents night awakenings. The next morning a person wakes up cheerful, well-rested and energetic. Due to the fact that the product is alcohol-based, it is not recommended for use by children, pregnant or lactating women.

The drug is not addictive and is suitable for long-term use. Exceeding the dose goes away without leaving a trace and cannot cause any harm.

The effect does not occur immediately, but after an hour, two or three, depending on the body. Recommended for older people who often wake up at night.

Notta

Homeopathic remedy used to reduce irritability, excitability and insomnia due to nervousness.

Pros:

• does not cause addiction;
• when taken in courses, it normalizes sleep;
• no adverse reactions;
• Helps reduce hyperactivity and normalize sleep in children over three years old.

Minuses:

• a one-time dose of medication will not help, a course is needed;
• may not be useful for some people;
• high price;
• contains alcohol.

Sonilyuks

The information has not been verified and may be unreliable!

In just one treatment course, which lasts no more than a month, you can normalize the nervous system, normalize sleep and get rid of insomnia. In addition, concentration, intelligence and memory will improve.

Here you will not find harmful chemicals, but only plant components with sedative properties.

The advantages are as follows.

1. Lack of drowsiness, lethargy and “heavy head” during wakefulness.
2. There is no discomfort or constipation after taking it.
3. Long-lasting, not temporary effect.
4. Safely combined with other medications.
5. Has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system.
6. Can be taken by children.

This product is not sold in pharmacies; it can only be ordered on the supplier’s official website.
The cost of the drug is quite high, but it can be ordered on the website with a 50% discount and purchased for only 990 rubles. Doesn't this fact worry you? Perhaps this is just a publicity stunt? Reviews about the medicine are completely positive and enthusiastic, but there is no data that these are actually real buyers and users.

You should not believe everything that is advertised on the Internet and distributed exclusively through pre-orders remotely. You shouldn't put your health at risk. In our country there is quite strict control over the production of sleeping pills, and all of them should be sold in pharmacies, and not through Internet sites.

"Persen-Forte": instructions, composition and patient reviews

The drug has a mild sedative and hypnotic effect; insomnia is mentioned in the instructions for use. It has a mild antispasmodic effect, so it can be used to treat migraines caused by various types of sleep disorders. Unlike Novo-Passit, it does not contain guaifenzine, and unlike Corvalol, it does not have an intrusive odor and does not contain phenobarbital. You can buy Persen-Forte without a prescription. These sleep tablets for older people often become indispensable and tolerance develops. So you should keep in mind: if it becomes difficult or even impossible to go to bed without the drug, then you should stop taking it for a while.

This medicine has a small disadvantage - there is no liquid dosage form. It is possible to purchase “Persen-Forte” only in tablet form. Usually the liquid form has the desired effect faster, so some patients still opt for Novo-Passit. "Persen-Forte" is not recommended for people with biliary tract diseases, as well as for children under 12 years of age. With prolonged use (especially when using large dosages) it can cause constipation.

Is it possible to give sleeping pills to children?

If a child has problems falling asleep, then use herbal decoctions and herbal infusions or special mixtures that contain tryptophan - an aromatic amino acid that does not have harmful effects on the body, but helps to sleep.

Pantogam is prescribed to very small babies from six months to a year; preschool children can be given homeopathic remedies and magnesium B6. Children under 14 years of age are contraindicated in taking medications based on aggressive chemical components. You can only use sedatives of plant origin or herbal soothing teas.

Is it worth warning that self-medication is contraindicated, and even criminal in relation to a child?

If the baby has nervous disorders, stress, stuttering, enuresis or hyperactivity, then a visit to a neurologist should be made as early as possible. There is no need to hide your head in the sand or brush off the problem - start treatment as early as possible.

In mandatory cases, sleeping pills are prescribed if the child suffers from:

• hydrocephalus of the brain;
• perinatal encephalopathy.

What else you need to know about sleeping pills

Since these medications are very unsafe, you should follow the rules for taking them to avoid side effects, overdose and addiction.

How long does it take for the drug to start working?

The instructions included with each medicine will indicate the expected time of falling asleep, but do not discount the characteristics of the human body. Do not forget that before it enters the blood, the medicine must dissolve in the digestive tract, which means it will take effect in 20-30 minutes. Some will wait an hour, while others will not be lucky at all, because their physiology is such that no sleeping pills have any effect on them.

How long will a person sleep?

The duration of action of sleeping pills varies.

1. 3-4 hours. The active substance will have a suppressive effect on irritants without affecting the receptors. Inhibition of the nervous system will occur naturally, and the person will fall asleep. Herbal-based products, in other words, sedatives, have this effect.
2. 6-8 hours. In addition to eliminating irritants, the tablets will trigger “forcible” inhibition of the central nervous system.
3. 8-10 hours. In this case, there is a serious effect on the nervous system, which makes it possible to exclude spontaneous awakenings.

Why doesn't it work?

The pill was taken, but I still couldn’t fall asleep. The reasons are as follows.

1. The body has become accustomed to this product and the active substance no longer works.
2. Physiological features.
3. Having a serious illness.

How to neutralize the effect of the drug?

It is useless to drink coffee, tea or energy drinks - you can only do harm. To cancel the effect of the drug, you need to block the increased sensitivity of GABA receptors, which are the main inhibitory transmitters of the nervous system. In this case, you cannot do without qualified medical assistance, since special drugs need to be administered intravenously.

If you suspect an overdose and poisoning, you must rinse the stomach and induce vomiting until doctors arrive.

Is it possible to wake up a person who has taken sleeping pills?

It is possible to stir up and interrupt sleep, but this difficult action will be absolutely useless - it will be difficult to call the state of complete prostration a wakefulness. A person will be able to move, but he will not be able to speak or think—the brain and nervous system will be inactive.

Donormil

It's even more so. It, like Melaxen, without disturbing the cyclicity of sleep phases, reduces the time it takes to fall asleep. Usually, half a Donormila tablet is enough for the eyelids to soon become heavy and the desire to close them to appear. Sleep becomes long and deep. However, it also has side effects. Some patients complain that they wake up in the morning with a “leaden” head and then feel lethargic and sleepy all day. And some people sometimes even have nightmares, which interrupt their sleep. "Donormil" - so much so that even a small overdose of it can result in undesirable effects. Therefore, it is important to choose a strictly individual dose. For some patients, for example, not half, but even a quarter of a tablet is enough to achieve the effect. But this drug should also not be taken by pregnant women or nursing mothers. It is also contraindicated for angle-closure glaucoma and urinary retention. Hypertensive patients should take it with caution, since each effervescent tablet contains almost 500 mg of sodium salts. Donormil (synonyms Sonmil, Sondox, Sonnix) is taken in courses of two to three weeks with monthly breaks. Even with prolonged use, it is not addictive. When taking “Melaxen” or “Donormil”, you need to perform work with extreme concentration that requires quick reaction speed and intense attention. You should also remember: any sleeping pills, and especially potent ones, should absolutely not be combined with alcohol! They are also incompatible with antidepressants, tranquilizers, and antipsychotics.

The foreign and domestic pharmaceutical market is saturated with many effective drugs for the treatment of insomnia. Their choice is made by a doctor based on the characteristics of the sleep disorder, the patient’s age, the presence of concomitant diseases, and the risk of side effects.

Sleeping pills are represented by drugs of different chemical groups

When treating sleep disorders, specialists are guided by the principle of prescribing medications from weaker to stronger. Moreover, the most powerful sleeping pill for each patient may be different, since the effectiveness of the medicine depends on the type of sleep disorder, the chronicity of the process, as well as the individual characteristics of the person.

(doxylamine succinate, 15 mg effervescent and regular tablets). Also available under the name Sonmil.

We suggest you familiarize yourself with How to properly plant plants in a pot

The importance of consulting a doctor

You should not self-medicate and prescribe yourself sleep pills that you read about on the Internet. Only a doctor can globally assess the entire picture of the disease, prescribe additional tests and examinations, make a diagnosis and then prescribe the necessary medications, including sleeping pills, if necessary.

Often, insomnia is the first sign that something is wrong with your nerves. You need to find the cause of the sleep disorder, and not take the seemingly easy route of falling asleep with the help of sleeping pills. I took a pill and slept! Then he repeated it, and then got involved. Uncontrolled use of drugs will only cause addiction, but will not solve the problem; rather, it will worsen it.