Finding the best sleeping pills can take time, patience, and ideally a doctor’s supervision. There are various types of sleeping pills on the market, including over-the-counter and prescription versions. Within those categories there are different strengths, ingredients, and brands. You and your doctor can consider your specific sleep problem, any allergies you have, and any other medications you’re taking. Once these factors are taken into consideration, you’ll be on your way to finding the best sleeping pills for you.
Determine whether you want over-the-counter sleeping pills or prescription sleeping pills. For some people, OTC sleeping pills work just as well as prescription versions. For others, such as those who have more trouble falling asleep and staying asleep, prescription versions are the best sleeping pills.
Consult your doctor if you’re not sure how to determine whether OTC or prescription pills would be the best sleeping pills for you. He will talk with you about your sleeping problem and either write you a prescription for sleeping pills or suggest you try an OTC version. Based on your sleeping problem, your doctor can talk with you about whether you should try strong or mild sleeping pills. He might even suggest a particular brand of OTC sleeping pills. It’s likely your doctor will also talk with you about ways to promote healthier sleep unrelated to pills, such as making certain lifestyle or diet changes.
If you decide to try OTC sleeping pills, the next decision to make is which kind of OTC pills to try. There are various types of sleeping pills you can purchase over the counter, and they all fall into one of two categories. The first type is medicated which, as the name suggests, contains medication to help you sleep. The second type is natural. These types of sleeping pills include a variety of natural ingredients, such as melatonin, to help promote sleep.
Whether you decide to use OTC or prescription sleeping pills, it could take a few tries before you find the best sleeping pills for you. When you talk to your doctor about prescription versions, be sure to mention any allergies you have, and have him explain any special instructions or precautions. If you’re buying sleeping pills over the counter, read the ingredients to avoid any allergic reactions or complications with other medications you’re currently taking. Regularly communicate with your doctor about how the pills are working. By doing this, he can change your prescription or suggest another kind of OTC sleeping pill until the two of you find the best sleeping pills for you.