The increase in the use of sleep medication in the UK over the past few years can be explained by certain trends among British people. One of the main reasons for the uptick in the use of sleep aids is the increase in insomnia. Research shows that about 30% of adults in the UK suffer from this condition, with many people struggling to fall asleep because of stress or anxiety.
Modern life is filled with stress, longer working hours, and the use of electronic devices which lead to a lack of sleep. The light emitted from screens, in addition to the constant use of digital devices, make it difficult for people to maintain a regular sleep schedule. This in turn leads to the increased use of sleep aids.
What are the Strongest Sleeping pills?
The potency of the best sleeping pills may depend on the drug’s mechanism of action, but some of the most potent are prescription drugs. These include benzodiazepines, which include diazepam (Valium). These are very effective in inducing sleep, but they are more likely to cause dependence, tolerance and to have adverse effects.
They are usually prescribed for the short-term use only. Z-Drugs are similar to benzodiazepines, and include zopiclone (Zimovane), zolpidem (Ambien), and eszopiclone (Lunesta). These are intended to treat insomnia, and are thought to be less likely to produce side effects. They can, however, cause dependence.
Side Effects
Even the best sleeping pills may have some side effects. Feeling drowsy during the day is one of the most frequently reported problems among users. Some users complain of a “hangover” sensation which affects their ability to perform daily activities, and poses a danger to their lives if they drive. The effects of this sedation are especially dangerous with stronger medications, or if the dosage is not regulated properly.
Another side effect connected with sleep aids is cognitive dysfunction. Users may suffer from memory loss, especially when they have taken too much of the medication. These medications can lead to short-term memory problems or even ‘blackouts’. Long-term use of the strongest sleeping pills can cause dependency.
Potential Interactions
It is important to note that even the best sleeping pills may interact with other drugs, and therefore produce side effects. It is crucial for anyone that is using sleep aids to know about these possible interactions. It is very dangerous to take sleep aids together with alcohol.
Mixing alcohol and sedatives together has the ability to depress the central nervous system, and therefore the effects of each substance will be magnified. This can result in excessive sleepiness, reduced coordination, and slow breathing.
Comprehensive Treatment
In conjunction with the best sleeping pills, the treatment of insomnia entails making some changes in your daily routine. These methods are usually favoured for their ability to treat the root cause of the sleep disorder, rather than just the symptoms. Falling asleep at a regular time is important for the body’s circadian rhythm. You should even adhere to this on the weekends.
This allows you to fall asleep and wake up without the use of alarms or other devices, since the body’s internal clock is in tune with the natural rhythm of the day. It is important to have a relaxing bedroom environment, which includes a comfortable mattress and keeping the room cool.
Correct Storage
The correct storage of the best sleeping pills is important in order to maintain its freshness, and to avoid the risk of ingestion by children or pets. Storing the medication properly also ensures that it retains its effectiveness, and does not spoil or become toxic. It is important to always follow the storage instructions that are written on the label of the drug or the package it came in.
Most medications should be stored at room temperature, in a dark, dry place. The bathroom is usually not recommended for the storage of medication because the moisture from the shower can affect the strongest sleeping pills. Instead, it is better to keep it in a bedroom drawer.
Shop Online Safely
A reliable online pharmacy will require a prescription from a qualified physician in order to purchase the best sleeping pills. Avoid online pharmacies that sell prescription medications without a prescription, since this is an indication that the pharmacy is not following the rules. Real online pharmacies will have a licensed pharmacist or healthcare provider who will be willing to speak to you before prescribing medication.
Ensure that the website of the online pharmacy has a secure encryption. Look for “https:” at the beginning, and there should be a padlock sign beside it. Ensure that the website has valid contact information such as a physical address and phone number.
Summary
The best sleeping pills are useful for treating short-term or episodic insomnia, and should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. They are especially helpful in cases of short-term stress, travelling, or acute sleep disorders. There are several different types of sleep aids to choose from, so it would be helpful to learn about each one before deciding which would be suitable for your situation. They are not advised to be used long term, unless directed by a medical professional.
These medications have side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, poor coordination, and memory problems. Also, patients may build up a tolerance to these drugs, which means that they would eventually need the strongest sleeping pills to get the same effect.
Author Profile
Dr Charles Edwards is a highly qualified clinical pharmacist with more than 20 years of experience in pharmacology, with a focus on the proper use of the best sleeping pills for sleep disorders. He was trained at the University of Manchester, where he got his Master’s degree in Pharmacy.
He later did his Doctorate in Clinical Pharmacy at the King’s College London. Dr Edwards is a General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registered pharmacist. Contact Charles on LinkedIn and x.com to stay up to date on the latest research.
For more information on the best sleeping pills, check out sleepstationuk.com.