Drugs that are prescribed for sleep:

1. Ambien (zolpidem) helps well with helping you get to sleep.  It affects the chemical in the brain that maybe unbalanced. If you are having difficulty with waking during the night, Ambien Cr is extended release versions that may help you get to sleep and stay asleep longer. This medication should not be taken if you cannot get a full 7-8 hours of sleep.

2. Lunesta (eszopiclone) also helps you fall asleep quickly by affecting the chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced. It causes relaxation and helps you fall asleep and stay asleep. This drug can also cause grogginess if you are not able to get a full 7-8 hours of sleep. 

3. Rozerem (ramelteon) works by targeting the sleep-wake cycle. It does not depress the central nervous system. It is used for those who have trouble falling asleep and can be used long-term with no evidence of abuse or dependence.

4. Sonata (zaleplon) is a sedative that affects the chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced. This medication does not need to be taken right at bedtime. If you go to bed and you are having trouble falling asleep, then you can take this medication, without the risk of grogginess the next day. 

5. Silenor (doxepine) is a in a group of drugs called hypnotics and is used for those who have trouble staying asleep. It works by blocking histamine receptors to help with sleep maintenance. This medication should not be taken unless you can get a full 7-8 hours of sleep.

6. Benzodiazepines, such as Halcion, Restoril or Xanax are often used for those who sleepwalk or have night terrors. These drugs stay in the body longer and may cause you to feel sleepy during the day. They work by depressing the central nervous system. There is also a chance of abuse and dependency with these drugs. 

7. Some antidepressant drugs may also be used to assist with sleeping. Usually they are used for patients who have trouble sleeping secondary to other conditions such as, depression or anxiety. These drugs include Amitriptyline, Remeron and Oleptro. 

As with any drug, there may be side effects. Depending on the type of prescription sleeping pill, the side effects can include:

1. Dizziness

2. Lightheadedness

3. Headache

4. Diarrhea

5. Nausea

6. Prolonged drowsiness

7. Sleep-driving

8. Sleep-eating

9. Daytime memory and performance problems

10. Severe allergic reaction

Be sure to follow your doctor’s order and take the medication only as prescribed. Also, if you wish to stop taking the medication, consult your doctor and follow the instructions carefully. Alcohol should never be mixed with sleeping pills. It will increase the sedative effects of the pill and can cause dizziness, fainting and confusion.