The Dangers of Sleeping Pills

Posted by: admin on: July 28, 2011

In: Sleep Disorder Symptoms
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Millions of Americans suffer from occasional sleeplessness to insomnia. Most people take some form of sleeping pill or sleep aid for their ailments, whether it is an over-the-counter medication or a prescription. Generally, sleeping pills are viewed as a safe way to get a good night’s sleep. There are, however, dangers to taking sleeping pills that should never be overlooked.
Sleeping Pills and Alcohol
Sleeping pills should never be taken with alcohol. Because alcohol and sleeping pills are both sedatives, your body receives a double dose of sedatives. This could lead to your heartbeat slowing to a dangerous rate or even stopping altogether.
Performing Actions While Sleeping
Some people develop sleep-walking while on sleeping pills. Unfortunately, this is not only limited to walking. There have been many documented cases of sleep eating and even sleep driving.
Accidents
Many people have accidents related to sleeping pills. Either while sleep walking or merely awake and groggy, the risk for falls and car accidents is great.
Trouble Falling Asleep
Some people who get used to taking a sleep aid to fall asleep on a regular basis may develop insomnia if they stop taking them. Your body may start to rely on them in order to fall asleep.
Tolerance
The longer a person takes a sleeping medication, the more they may need to create the desired effect.
Addiction
Sleeping pills can be very addictive, some more than others. Not only do they make it more difficult to fall asleep without them, but your body may go through typical withdrawal symptoms as well.
Overdose–Accidental or Otherwise
People who take sleeping pills have higher risks for suicide, and this is for two reasons. One, these people are more stressed, and stress causes sleeplessness. The second reason is because sleeping pill tolerance may cause a person to overdose, because more is needed to get the same effect or unknowingly take it with alcohol or another sedative.