Can You Overdose on Sleeping Pills?

Can You Overdose on Sleeping Pills?

Yes. Overdosing on sleeping pills, especially benzodiazepine sleep aids, is possible. Sleeping pills should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Some sleeping pills may be more dangerous than others. 

Sleep disorders like insomnia are common. Roughly one in seven people in the United States reports having long-term insomnia. [1] The use of over-the-counter sleep medications is widespread but may be associated with adverse side effects and risks. There are effective alternatives that may be safer, including sleep hygiene and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

What Are Sleeping Pills?

Sleeping pills, sometimes called sleep aids, sedatives, or tranquilizers, are medications that cause drowsiness and can help a person fall asleep at night. These sleep medications are often used by people who have insomnia or other sleep disorders. Some people use sleeping aids for the occasional restless night. 

Some sleeping pills may be available over-the-counter. Others may only be obtained with a prescription from a medical doctor. Both types of sleeping pills can be dangerous if not taken as recommended. 

Types of Sleeping Pills

There are different types of sleeping pills. Each might come with its own set of side effects and risks: 

• Over-the-counter sleep aids (usually contain antihistamines)
• Natural supplements (e.g., melatonin)
• Prescription barbiturates
• Prescription benzodiazepines
• Prescription antidepressants
• Prescription Z-drugs (e.g., Ambien, Lunesta)

How Do Sleeping Pills Work?

Different types of sleeping pills work in different ways. Sometimes, sleep aids cause sleepiness directly. Others may block signals in the brain that cause alertness. Many types of Z-drugs work by slowing brain activity. It could be important to note that sleeping pills only treat the symptoms of sleep issues (i.e., sleeplessness). They do not address the root causes of sleep problems. 

Side Effects of Sleeping Pills

The specific side effects you experience may depend on the type of sleep aid you’re using. Generally, side effects of sleeping pills may include: [2]

• Dry mouth
• Balance issues
• Next-day grogginess
• Headaches
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Increased snoring
• Worsening sleep apnea
• Parasomnia

If you’re experiencing serious side effects from taking sleep medications or side effects persist after a few days, contact your doctor or other medical professional. 

Dangers of Sleeping Pills

Some sleeping pills can be more dangerous than others. Generally, experts consider barbiturates and benzodiazepines the most dangerous because of their addictive properties and potential for drug abuse. This could increase the risk of overdose. Benzodiazepines are prescribed more frequently and therefore pose the biggest risk to individuals and public health. 

Sleeping Pills Addiction

Some prescription sleeping pills, particularly benzodiazepines, have been associated with a high risk of addiction and abuse. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has classified these medications as Schedule IV controlled substances. [3] People who misuse benzodiazepines or take them without a prescription could face serious legal consequences, including jail time. 

Signs of Addiction to Sleeping Pills

When someone gets addicted to sleeping pills, they develop a physical dependence on the medications. Signs of addiction may include: 

• Intense cravings for the sleep medication
• Needing more pills to achieve the same effect
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug
• Going to extreme measures to obtain more of the medication

Sleeping Pills Overdose

There are tens of thousands of overdoses caused by benzodiazepines each year. Overdoses from other types of sleep aids are less common, but they do happen. Suppose you or a loved one is taking sleeping pills, whether over-the-counter or by prescription. In that case, it’s important to be aware of the signs of a sleeping pill overdose, what to do in the case of an overdose, and how to prevent these life-threatening situations in the first place. 

Signs of Overdose from Sleeping Pills

If someone has overdosed on sleeping pills, particularly benzodiazepines, they may display the following symptoms: [4]

• Respiratory depression (i.e., slow or shallow breathing)
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Slurred speech
• Extreme drowsiness
• Coma or death

What to Do in Case of Drug Overdose

An overdose of sleeping pills can be fatal and is considered a medical emergency. If you or a loved one has taken sleeping pills and begins to experience any of the common symptoms of overdose above, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. 

There is a drug available called flumazenil that may reverse some of the effects of an overdose of benzodiazepine sleeping pills. [5] You must receive this drug as soon as possible after developing overdose symptoms. Oxygen therapy may also be used to support breathing during an overdose. 

Preventing Sleeping Pill Overdose

Prevention may be one of the best methods of addressing drug overdose, including overdose from the use of sleep medications. Here are some basic guidelines to follow: 

• Don’t take prescription sleeping pills if you have a history of substance use disorder or drug abuse. 
• Tell your doctor about any other health conditions you have before they prescribe sleeping pills. 
• Never mix sleeping pills with alcohol or other recreational substances. 
• Don’t mix sleeping pills with other prescription medications unless directed by a healthcare provider. 
• For prescription sleep medications, follow your doctor’s instructions precisely and report any side effects you experience immediately. Never take more than the recommended dose. 
• For over-the-counter (OTC) sleep medications, read all directions and warnings on the packaging as well as any inserts included inside the package. Follow these guidelines precisely. 

Safer Alternatives to Sleeping Pills

There could be several safer alternatives to taking sleeping pills to help you get to sleep. Two effective methods include good sleep hygiene and cognitive behavioral therapy. 

Good Sleep Hygiene

Making lifestyle changes to promote good sleep hygiene may be one of the most effective methods of ensuring a good night’s sleep without the risk or side effects associated with sleeping pills. Consider making the following suggestions part of your regular sleep routine: [6]

• Go to sleep and get up at the same time every day. 
• Sleep in a cool, dark room. 
• Avoid large meals right before bedtime. 
• Avoid exercise up to 4 hours before bedtime. 
• Limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. 
• Limit screen time before bed. 
• If you take naps, take them before 3 pm. 
• Engage in a relaxing activity right before bed, such as reading or meditation. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, has been proven to be an effective long-term solution for insomnia and other sleep disorders. [7] It works by helping you change certain beliefs and patterns of thinking related to sleep that could be negatively affecting your ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. One of the reasons this therapy is so effective is that it addresses the root of your sleep issues rather than merely treating the symptoms. 

Sleeping Pills Can Be Harmful

The use of sleeping pills should only be a short-term solution for sleep problems, and even then, there are special precautions you may need to take to ensure safety. People with a history of substance misuse, including alcohol misuse, may need to avoid taking sleeping pills, especially prescription drugs like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and Z-drugs. There are safer, more natural ways to get a good night’s sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions About K2