In 2007, the FDA ordered all manufacturers of sedative-hypnotic drugs, more commonly known as sleeping medications, to change their labeling in an attempt to clarify potential side effects caused by these drugs. These changes, however, didn’t stop Americans from using them. A poll conducted in 2008 by the National Sleep Foundation reported that 12 percent of Americans surveyed used a sleep aid to help them sleep at least a few times a week. The side effects caused by sleep aids are rare but can potentially be serious.
Complex Behavior While Sleeping
Although side effects caused by sleeping pills vary largely between drugs, there are some side effects caused by most medications. Among these side effects are complex behaviors during sleep. Those who experience this kind of side effect take part in many activities normally performed while awake, like driving, calling people, walking, eating, and even having sex. Oftentimes, people have no recollection of having done these things during the night. The director of the FDA’s division of neurology products, Russell Katz, says: “Complex behaviors, such as sleep-driving, could be potentially dangerous to both the patients and to others.”
Allergic Reactions
Experiencing something called anaphylaxis, or a severe allergic reaction, is rare in individuals taking sleeping aids, but can be potentially dangerous. Common reactions are itchy hives, difficulties breathing, and feelings of discomfort and nausea. These allergic reactions can be quite widespread and can occur the first time you try the drug. The reason allergic reactions to the drugs can be life-threatening is because when you experience them, you will most likely be asleep or in a very relaxed and non-attentive state. As a result, you might not notice what is happening to you.
Nausea and Drowsiness
Prescription drugs like Ambien and Zolpidem often list feelings of nausea, drowsiness, and discomfort among their possible side effects. These feelings are usually reported by consumers in the early morning. The reason for these side effects is that some medications stay in your blood stream for more than eight hours and continue to affect you even after you wake up. Manufacturers’often design sedative-hypnotic drugs to help you stay asleep for a full eight hours. It’s not unusual for you to still feel sleepy when you wake up in the morning if you are taking medication to help you sleep. As a result, you should never take sleep aids if you know you are not going to be able to get a full eight hours sleep. Also, operating heavy machinery is never advisable under the influence of these drugs, and it is recommended that you avoid using such machines until you know how you are affected by the medication you are taking.
Recent Comments