Having trouble sleeping? It is not just because of aging
drugs — diphenhydramine (Benadryl Allergy, Nytol, Sominex and generic), doxylamine (Unisom tablets and generic), Advil PM and Tylenol PM — carry risks for older adults.
Next-day side effects include drowsiness, confusion, constipation, dry mouth and difficulty urinating.
Seniors are likely to be more sensitive than others to sedative-hypnotic drugs, which may remain in their bodies longer than in younger people’s systems.
These drugs are also known to cause confusion and memory problems that can increase the risk for auto accidents, falls and hip fractures.
The ACP recommends that medications, when used, be taken for only of sleep aids wouldn’t pose serious risks for health problems or negative interactions with other medications.
“Over-the-counter sleep medications, are metabolized more slowly and tend to stay in an individual’s system longer than prescription drugs.
“Dietary supplements that are used as sleep aids and contain plant products, vitamins and minerals — for instance, valerian — appear to be generally safe, although there is little evidence that they work.
“Another common compound used in dietary supplements, melatonin — a naturally occurring hormone that is typically released in the evening and remains elevated until morning — does little to help people fall asleep quicker when taken