Serious Side Effects of Sleeping Pills: What You Need to Know

n

Sleeping pills, prescribed for relief from chronic insomnia or occasional sleeplessness, are among the most commonly used sedative-hypnotic medications in the world. While these medications can offer short-term benefits, their use is often associated with a range of side effects—some mild, others potentially life-threatening. Understanding these effects is essential before starting or continuing their use.

nn

Table of Contents

n

n
• Overview: What Are Sleeping Pills?

n

• Common Side Effects

n

• Serious and Uncommon Side Effects

n

• Long-Term Health Risks

n

• Dependence and Withdrawal

n

• Who Is Most at Risk?

n

• Warnings and Precautions

n

• Tips for Safe Discontinuation

n

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

n

nn

Overview: What Are Sleeping Pills?

n

Sleeping pills, also known as hypnotics or sedative-hypnotics, are medications designed to help people fall asleep or stay asleep. They include:

n

n
• Benzodiazepines (e.g., temazepam, diazepam), often prescribed for short-term insomnia.

n

• Non-benzodiazepine hypnotics (“Z-drugs” such as zolpidem, zaleplon, and eszopiclone).

n

• Other prescription medications with sedating effects (e.g., certain antidepressants).

n

• Over-the-counter sleep aids, typically containing antihistamines like diphenhydramine.

n

n

While effective for short periods or sporadic use, all sleeping pills carry the risk of side effects, especially with regular or prolonged use.

nn

Common Side Effects

n

Even when used as directed, sleeping pills can cause a range of mild to moderate adverse reactions. These often occur in the hours following use or the next day.

n

n
• Next-Day Drowsiness: Feeling sleepy, groggy, or “hungover” upon waking is one of the most common complaints.

n

• Dizziness and Lightheadedness: May lead to poor coordination and higher risk of falls, especially in older adults.

n

• Headache: Various types of headaches can occur.

n

• Digestive Issues: These include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, gas, heartburn, or stomach discomfort.

n

• Dry Mouth and Throat: Discomfort and increased risk of dental problems over time.

n

• Burning or Tingling Sensations: Often in the hands, arms, feet, or legs.

n

• Unusual Dreams or Nightmares: Some users experience vivid or unsettling dreams.

n

• Difficulty With Focus and Memory: Mental “fog,” forgetfulness, and slow decision-making.

n

n

These effects may impair your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring attention the next morning.

nn

Serious and Uncommon Side Effects

n

While less common, some individuals experience dangerous reactions to sleeping pills. Immediate medical attention is needed if any of these occur:

n

n
• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, lips, or tongue), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing and swallowing.

n

• Parasomnias: Unusual behaviors while asleep, such as sleepwalking, sleep-eating, sleep-driving, making phone calls, or even engaging in sex, have been reported. Individuals often have no memory of these episodes, which can be dangerous for themselves and others.

n

• Respiratory Depression: Sleeping pills—especially benzodiazepines and Z-drugs—can slow breathing, a particular danger for those with respiratory disorders (e.g., sleep apnea, asthma, COPD).

n

• Chest Pain, Irregular Heartbeat, or Fainting: Though rare, these symptoms require emergency care.

n

• Severe Confusion, Hallucinations, or Behavioral Changes: Agitation, aggression, or paranoia can sometimes arise, especially in elderly users or those with underlying mental health issues.

n

• Overdose: Taking more than the recommended dose, or mixing with alcohol, opioids, or other sedating drugs, dramatically increases risk of overdose, respiratory arrest, coma, or death.

n

nn

n

n

n

n

n

n

n

n

n

nn

Long-Term Health Risks

n

Prolonged or frequent use of sleeping pills increases the risk of chronic and sometimes irreversible health problems. Long-term side effects include:

n

n
• Tolerance and Dependence: The body gradually requires higher doses for the same effect, increasing the likelihood of addiction.

n

• Cognitive Impairment: Chronic use disrupts brain function, slows decision-making, and may contribute to poor memory and brain degeneration.

n

• Dementia and Alzheimer’s Risk: Elderly individuals using hypnotics long-term have a greater risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

n

• Depression: There is evidence that extended use can worsen depression and elevate the risk of mood disturbances.

n

• Sexual Dysfunction: Reduced libido and sexual difficulties are more likely with ongoing use.

n

• Increased Falls and Injuries: Particularly hazardous for seniors, due to muscle weakness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.

n

• Respiratory Suppression: Worsening of underlying breathing disorders, especially with concurrent use of other sedatives.

n

nn

Dependence and Withdrawal

n

Sleeping pill dependence can develop with sustained use. Dependence means you need the medication to sleep and may experience symptoms if you attempt to decrease the dose or stop altogether. Signs include:

n

n
• Needing higher doses for the same effect (tolerance).

n

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, tremors, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and severe rebound insomnia if you stop suddenly.

n

• Compulsive urge to use despite adverse effects.

n

n

The safest way to discontinue sleeping pills is through gradual tapering with medical supervision, sometimes using alternative therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).

nn

Who Is Most at Risk?

n

Certain individuals are more susceptible to sleeping pill side effects:

n

n
• Elderly people: Greater sensitivity to sedatives, higher risk of confusion, falls, and cognitive impairment.

n

• Those with respiratory disorders: Risk of dangerously slowed or stopped breathing.

n

• Individuals with a history of substance abuse: Higher risk of dependence or misuse.

n

• Anyone taking other sedating drugs or alcohol: Dangerously enhanced central nervous system depression.

n

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Not recommended unless prescribed and monitored closely.

n

nn

Warnings and Precautions

n

Before taking any sleeping pill, discuss the following with your healthcare provider:

n

n
• Your complete medical history, including lung, liver, kidney, mental health, and substance use history.

n

• All other medications, supplements, or remedies you are taking, to avoid harmful interactions.

n

• Pregnancy or intention to become pregnant.

n

• Persistent insomnia, as sleeping pills should not be used longer than recommended, and underlying causes should be evaluated.

n

n

The lowest effective dose for the shortest duration is typically the safest approach. Medical guidelines advise against nightly, long-term use except in specific cases and under close observation.

nn

Tips for Safe Discontinuation

n

If you have been using sleeping pills and want to stop, follow these recommendations:

n

n
• Consult your Provider: Sudden cessation can cause withdrawal and worsen sleep. Work out a gradual reduction plan.

n

• Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for rebound insomnia, anxiety, or other withdrawal signs. These may be managed with behavioral strategies or therapies.

n

• Healthy Sleep Habits: Establish a regular sleep-wake schedule, limit screen time at night, avoid caffeine and heavy meals late in the day, and create a calming bedtime routine.

n

• Consider CBT-I: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia is safe and effective, especially during medication tapering.

n

nn

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

nn

Q: Can I take sleeping pills every night?

n

A: Most experts advise against nightly long-term use due to the risk of dependence, tolerance, and side effects. Occasional use under medical supervision is generally safer.

nn

Q: What should I do if I experience unusual symptoms after taking a sleeping pill?

n

A: Stop the medication and seek immediate medical help if you notice allergic reactions, severe confusion, unusual sleep behaviors, or difficulty breathing.

nn

Q: Are over-the-counter sleep aids safer than prescription sleeping pills?

n

A: OTC sleep aids, mainly antihistamines, are not free of risks. They can cause next-day sedation, confusion, urinary retention, and increase falls risk, especially in the elderly.

nn

Q: Can I stop taking sleeping pills suddenly?

n

A: Sudden discontinuation may cause withdrawal and rebound insomnia. Always consult your doctor for a gradual tapering plan.

nn

Q: What alternatives exist for improving sleep without medication?

n

A: CBT-I, practicing sleep hygiene, regular exercise, limiting naps, and mindfulness techniques help many people improve sleep quality naturally.

nn

Key Takeaways

n

n
• All sleeping pills carry risks—from common hangover symptoms to rare but severe behavioral and respiratory events.

n

• Long-term use is linked to dependence, cognitive decline, falls, and depression.

n

• If you use sleeping pills, do so cautiously and under medical supervision, and seek help if serious side effects occur.

n

• Gradual tapering and non-pharmacological sleep therapies are safest when discontinuing use.

n

n

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete