Stress levels are at an all time high due to tough economic times.  As a stay at home mom, I am dealing with a lot of financial stress since I control the checkbook.  The stress is keeping me up at night–every night.   Years ago, I took NyQuil to put me to sleep.  I’m sure others have similar stories of taking various OTC drugs to induce a restful night sleep.

Unfortunately, many common non-prescription drugs leave people feeling drowsy the next morning.  Some aren’t even very effective at providing a restful sleep.  Even worse, multiple studies have shown that an OTC sleep aid can be habit forming in as little as one week.  Why?

Most non-prescription sleep medications contain antihistamines, which cause drowsiness.  The most common antihistimine in sleep aids is Diphenhydramine.  Nytol, Sleep-Eez, Unisom, and Sominex contain Diphenhydramine.  Other sleep aids also contain pain relievers…the most common are Excedrin P.M. , Advil P.M. , and Tylenol P.M

Common side effects from antihistimine based sleep aids include:

• Dry Mouth
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Daytime drowsiness

You should consult your doctor before taking non-prescription sleep medications since they can cause health risks for people with heart, lung, and general health issues.