Sleep is one of the major activities required to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. However, lack of it is something we have all observed from time to time. It stands as a problem when it keeps happening on a regular basis as it drains the mental energy and doesn’t let us focus on our tasks.

There are two major kinds of sleeping pills available in the market, the ones that are benzodiazepines and the ones that are non-benzodiazepines. The first class of sleeping aids is known to cause a depression in the central nervous system, thereby slowing down its activity. The second class of medicines is relatively new and safer. Although, the side effects still remain and it is particularly not safe for people with liver or kidney disease.

The sleeping pills prescribed are capable of helping you fall asleep, stay asleep or both. The side effects and benefits of various pills differ from one to another. Hence before using one, consult your doctor. Rule out any underlying conditions that might be causing the trouble. You could try a particular medication for a period of time and continue or discontinue accordingly. Discuss all your sleeping patterns and choose the medication according to the severity.

There are medicines like ramelteon (Rozerem) that help you fall asleep and doxepin (silenor) that help you stay asleep. However, most of the sleeping aids can lead to dependence while also helping you sleep. Examples of some such medications are estazolam, eszopiclone (Lunesta), temazepam (Restoril), zolpidem extended-release (ambient CR) etc. Always make it a point to find out from your doctor about the possible side effects of these medicines, once prescribed.