Sleep well, live well
What is the Best Sleeping Pill for Elderly?
- Imtiaz Ahmad MD, MPH, FCCP
- Updated on: December 30, 2023
- Hypersomnia, Insomnia, Sleep, Sleep & Health, Sleep & Lifestyle, Sleep Diagnostics
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There are several options for sleep aids or sleeping pills that may be appropriate for elderly individuals, but it is important to discuss treatment options with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action. It is important to note that insomnia can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, and it is important to address any underlying medical conditions as part of the treatment plan.
Over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids
There are several OTC sleep aids that are available, such as diphenhydramine (found in products like Benadryl) and doxylamine (found in products like Unisom). These medications can be effective for short-term use, but they can also have side effects, such as dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness, which may be more pronounced in elderly
Non-pharmacological treatments
In some cases, non-pharmacological treatments may be appropriate for elderly individuals with insomnia and better than sleep aids. These may include cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), relaxation techniques, and sleep hygiene education.
Prescription sleeping pills (sleep aids )
There are several prescription sleeping pills that may be appropriate and safe pills for elderly individuals, such as zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta). These sleeping pills can be effective, but they can also have side effects and may be habit-forming. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of these sleeping pills with a healthcare professional.
Some common and safe sleeping pills (sleep aids) that may be used in elderly individuals include:
- Zolpidem (Ambien): This sleeping pill is in a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics and works by slowing down the central nervous system. It is typically taken just before bedtime and is effective for helping people fall asleep.
- Eszopiclone (Lunesta): This sleeping pill is in a class of drugs called hypnotics and works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with sleep disorders. It is taken just before bedtime and is effective for helping people fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Temazepam (Restoril): This sleeping pill is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines and works by slowing down the central nervous system. It is typically taken just before bedtime and is effective for helping people fall asleep and stay asleep.
It is important to note that these sleep aids can have side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion, which may be more pronounced in elderly individuals. They can also interact with other sleeping pills that an individual may be taking. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of these sleeping pills with a healthcare professional before starting treatment.
About Allergy, Sleep & Lung Care
Allergy, Sleep & Lung Care is dedicated to improving and maintaining the health status of their patients by providing compassionate, top quality care. The respected practice provides excellence in patient care with the innovation that counts. The highly experienced team continues to provide a level of care and treatment that is unmatched on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Allergy Sleep & Lung Care is located at16420 HealthPark Commons Drive, Suite 100 Fort Myers, FL 33908, with a second location at 260 Beth Stacey Boulevard, Suite 220 Lehigh Acres, FL 33936.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A SLEEP ISSUE? LET’S TALK.
Imtiaz Ahmad, MD, MPH, FCCP
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad is a highly qualified physician, Board Certified in Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine. He has been actively serving the community of Lee County, Florida since 2004, with a strong focus on a proactive healthcare approach. Dr. Ahmad has received advanced training from some of the most prestigious institutions, including Harvard University, Cornell University, State University of New York at Brooklyn, and the University of Mississippi. SOMNAS is a medical facility that is committed to improving and maintaining the health of patients with sleep disorders. The expert team at SOMNAS is known for their compassionate and high-quality care. They offer unparalleled treatment and care to patients on the Gulf Coast of Florida, ensuring a better and healthier life for them.
Job Title: Board Certified in Pulmonary Medicine
