Sleep medications (sedative-hypnotics) are categorized into various groups with different mechanisms of action, such as those affecting the central nervous system, promoting relaxation and sleep, or those selectively targeting the brain's sleep control center for faster sleep onset with minimal morning grogginess. Some antihistamines also have sedative effects. Each medication type has an optimal time for intake to maximize effectiveness and minimize side effects.

Dr. Nguyen Huu Khanh from the Neuroscience Center at Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, notes that using sleep medication without a prescription or arbitrarily increasing the dosage can lead to dependence, memory impairment, movement disorders, and other adverse effects. Doctors prescribe sleep medication for acute insomnia caused by jet lag, work pressure, or psychological events. Medication can also be used for chronic insomnia affecting work performance, mood, and overall health, as well as sleep difficulties due to anxiety disorders, depression, chronic pain, Parkinson's disease, or Alzheimer's disease.

Individuals experiencing early morning awakenings, frequent sleep interruptions unresponsive to lifestyle changes, or those needing short-term support during recovery from surgery or acute illnesses disrupting sleep can also use sleep medication as advised by a doctor.

Taking sleep medication at the right time and as prescribed helps with relaxation and promotes sleep. Illustration generated by AI.

Most sleep medications should be taken about 15-30 minutes before going to bed, when the patient has prepared their sleep environment and posture. Taking it too early, while still active, can cause dizziness, reduced concentration, and an increased risk of falls. Conversely, taking it too late (after midnight) can lead to residual effects the next morning, causing drowsiness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Long-acting sleep medications prescribed for those who frequently wake up early should be taken at the right time to ensure 7-8 hours of sleep.

To improve sleep, Dr. Khanh advises maintaining regular sleep-wake times, avoiding coffee or alcohol in the evening, limiting screen time before bed, and ensuring a quiet and cool sleep environment. For persistent insomnia, restless sleep accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath during sleep, loud snoring, daytime fatigue, mood changes, or memory decline, it's recommended to seek consultation at medical facilities with a neurology department. Depending on the condition, doctors may recommend tests such as polysomnography, electroencephalography (EEG), blood tests, or brain imaging to determine the cause.

Dr. Tuan Anh performs transcranial magnetic stimulation to treat a patient's insomnia. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

For chronic insomnia or sleep disorders due to neurological causes, in addition to medication, doctors may recommend treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation or cognitive behavioral therapy to regulate circadian rhythms and reduce medication dependence.

Phuong Pham