Medications That Make You Sleepy: A Quick Guide

Have you ever wondered what medication makes you sleepy? Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs can cause fatigue and drowsiness as a side effect. These medications, including sleeping pills, sedatives, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety medications, pain relievers, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications, affect the brain chemicals called neurotransmitters that regulate wakefulness and sleepiness.

While these medications can be beneficial for treating various health conditions, they can also lead to unwanted drowsiness and fatigue. It’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with these drugs, especially if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or an older adult. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Key Takeaways

• Many prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause drowsiness and fatigue as a side effect.
• These medications affect neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate wakefulness and sleepiness.
• Common drugs that induce sleepiness include antihistamines, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, blood pressure medications, and pain relievers.
• Be aware of potential side effects and risks, especially if you have certain medical conditions or are pregnant, breastfeeding, or an older adult.
• Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Understanding Medications and Sleepiness

Many medications can cause drowsiness as a side effect, affecting the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate wakefulness and sleepiness. An estimated 35% of adults in America fail to get the recommended amount of sleep per night, and more than 8% report using a sleep aid multiple times in the previous week. Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, and many prescription sleep aids are designed to treat it. However, these medications can lead to unwanted side effects such as fatigue, drowsiness, and cognitive impairment.

How Medications Affect Neurotransmitters

Medications that cause drowsiness often work by altering the levels of specific neurotransmitters in the brain. For example, benzodiazepines, which are used to treat anxiety disorders and seizures, can cause sedation and fatigue by dampening central nervous system activity. These drugs enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which slows down brain activity and promotes relaxation.

Other medications, such as antihistamines and certain antidepressants, can cause drowsiness by blocking the action of histamine, a neurotransmitter that promotes wakefulness. By understanding how these medications affect neurotransmitters, healthcare providers can help patients manage the side effects and improve their overall sleep efficiency.

Common Side Effects of Medications

In addition to drowsiness, medications that affect sleep can cause a range of other side effects, including:

• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Urinary retention
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Muscle weakness

The severity and duration of these side effects can vary depending on the specific medication and dosage. For example, Z drugs, a type of sedative-hypnotic medication for insomnia, can cause daytime drowsiness, cognitive impairment, dependence, withdrawal symptoms, abnormal thinking and behavior, worsening of depression, and rare allergic reactions. Studies show that women are often more affected than men by the same dose of Z drugs.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication, and report any concerning side effects promptly.

Allergy Medications (Antihistamines) Medications That Make You Sleepy

Allergy medications, particularly antihistamines, are a common go-to solution for managing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. While effective at providing relief, many antihistamines can also cause drowsiness as a side effect. This is because they work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical involved in the body’s allergic response, which can also affect wakefulness and alertness.

First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), are more likely to cause drowsiness due to their effects on histamine production in the brain. In fact, diphenhydramine is often found in sleeping pills because of its sedating properties. On the other hand, second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec®), fexofenadine (Allegra®), and loratadine (Claritin®) are marketed as “non-sedating” and generally cause less drowsiness, although they may still induce sleepiness in some individuals.

Brompheniramine (Bromfed, Dimetapp)

Brompheniramine is an antihistamine commonly found in cold and allergy medications like Bromfed and Dimetapp. It is effective at reducing symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing but can cause significant drowsiness. Cold and flu medicines that include brompheniramine may be more sedating than newer antihistamines.

Diphenhydramine

Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine that is well-known for causing drowsiness. It is often used in sleep aids and can cause side effects like sleepiness, reduced coordination, blurred vision, and dry mouth. While effective at treating allergy symptoms, its sedating properties may make it less desirable for daytime use.

Hydroxyzine (Vistaril, Atarax)

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine prescribed for allergies, anxiety, and nausea. It is known to cause drowsiness and is sometimes used as a sedative before medical procedures. Hydroxyzine may cause more drowsiness compared to other antihistamines, making it important to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.

Meclizine (Antivert)

Meclizine is an antihistamine used to treat motion sickness and vertigo. While it can be effective at reducing nausea and dizziness, it can also cause drowsiness as a side effect. Meclizine may be less sedating than some other antihistamines but can still impair alertness and coordination.

When taking antihistamines, it’s important to be aware of the potential for drowsiness and to take precautions accordingly. If you experience excessive sleepiness or impaired coordination, it’s best to avoid driving or engaging in activities that require alertness. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help you find an allergy medication that effectively manages your symptoms while minimizing unwanted side effects like drowsiness.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are a class of medications used to treat various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. While these medications can be highly effective in managing symptoms, they may also cause side effects like drowsiness, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Understanding the potential impact of antidepressants on sleep is crucial for individuals who are considering or currently taking these medications.

Antidepressant medications help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety in up to 70% of individuals who try them. The effectiveness of antidepressants can increase to a higher rate when people switch to a second type of antidepressant after not getting relief with the initial medication. On average, improvements in symptoms of depression or anxiety should be noticeable within two to four weeks of starting a new antidepressant, with full remission expected at six to twelve weeks.

Tricyclic Antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants are a specific class of antidepressants that are known to cause drowsiness and fatigue. These medications work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can lead to side effects like sleepiness. Some common tricyclic antidepressants include:

• Amitriptyline (Elavil, Vanatrip)
• Doxepin (Silenor, Sinequan)
• Imipramine (Tofranil, Tofranil PM)
• Trimipramine (Surmontil)

Amitriptyline (Elavil, Vanatrip)

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of depression and anxiety. This medication can cause drowsiness and fatigue, particularly at the beginning of treatment. Strategies to address fatigue include napping, light exercise, and adjusting the timing of medication intake.

Doxepin (Silenor, Sinequan)

Doxepin is another tricyclic antidepressant that may cause drowsiness and sleep disturbances. In some cases, doxepin may be prescribed in low doses specifically for the treatment of insomnia. However, higher doses used for the treatment of depression may lead to daytime sleepiness and fatigue.

Imipramine (Tofranil, Tofranil PM)

Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that can cause drowsiness and fatigue, as well as other side effects like dry mouth and constipation. Individuals taking imipramine may benefit from staying hydrated, using sugar-free gum, and practicing good oral hygiene to manage these side effects.

Trimipramine (Surmontil)

Trimipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and sleep disturbances. Individuals taking trimipramine should take precautions like rising slowly and avoiding activities that require alertness until they understand how the medication affects them.

It is important to note that genetic variations may influence the effectiveness and potential side effects of antidepressants. Ongoing research is exploring personalized medicine based on genetic makeup to guide treatment decisions. Individuals who find relief from antidepressants are typically advised to continue the medication for at least six to nine months after experiencing beneficial effects to prevent a return of depression or anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines)

Benzodiazepines, the most widely prescribed psychoactive drugs worldwide, are a class of medications commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. These anxiety medications work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system, resulting in sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic properties. Some of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines for anxiety include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan).

While effective in managing anxiety symptoms, benzodiazepines can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and loss of balance. At higher doses, these medications may lead to confusion, disorientation, amnesia, breathing difficulties, and depression. Additionally, benzodiazepines can impair cognitive functions, making it harder to learn and remember new information or perform certain physical and mental tasks. As a result, patients should be cautioned against driving or operating machinery while taking these anxiety medications.

Due to their potential for habit formation and dependence, benzodiazepines are generally recommended for short-term or occasional use. When taken regularly for an extended period, especially at higher doses, the risk of addiction increases significantly. Tolerance to benzodiazepines may develop within a few weeks of regular use, and withdrawal symptoms such as headache, insomnia, anxiety, tremors, fatigue, and loss of appetite can occur when discontinuing the medication. To minimize withdrawal effects, stopping benzodiazepines after long-term use may require a gradual reduction under medical supervision.

Benzodiazepines are classified based on their strength and duration of action, which influences how they are used to treat various conditions. Short-acting benzodiazepines like lorazepam are generally preferred when residual sedation is undesirable, while longer-acting ones like diazepam are indicated when early waking is a problem. Health care providers should prescribe benzodiazepines at the lowest effective dose for the shortest period, with a maximum duration of 4 weeks. Notably, diazepam is recommended as an essential medicine for anxiety and sleep disorders.

In a 12-month period between 2014 and 2015, at least 30.5 million people in the U.S. were estimated to have taken benzodiazepines prescribed by a healthcare provider.

When considering treatment options for anxiety disorders, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits of benzodiazepines. While these medications can provide rapid relief from anxiety symptoms, long-term use is not recommended due to the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms. For individuals with generalized anxiety disorder, especially when depression is present or long-term therapy is needed, antidepressants may be considered as an alternative treatment option. To ensure the safe and effective use of anxiety medications, patients should always follow their healthcare provider’s guidance and disclose any other medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions. By staying informed and working closely with medical professionals, individuals can find the most suitable treatment plan to manage their anxiety and improve their overall well-being. For more information on selecting the right pillow for neck pain relief, check out our comprehensive guide.

Blood Pressure Medications (Beta-blockers)

Beta-blockers are a class of blood pressure medications that work by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the force of heart contractions. These medications are commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure when other treatments have proven ineffective. By blocking the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline on beta receptors in the body, beta-blockers help regulate heart rate, relax blood vessels, and improve overall cardiovascular function.

Beta-blockers are categorized into three generations based on their development timeline and receptor binding properties. Some beta-blockers, known as nonselective, bind equally to both B1 and B2 receptors, while others, called cardio-selective, primarily target B1 receptors found in the heart. Third-generation beta-blockers, developed in the mid-1970s, have shown enhanced efficacy in treating conditions like high blood pressure.

In addition to managing high blood pressure, beta-blockers are prescribed for various other conditions, including:

• Irregular heart rhythms
• Heart failure
• Angina
• Heart attacks
• Migraines
• Certain tremors

Some of the most commonly prescribed beta-blockers include:

Atenolol (Tenormin)

Atenolol is a cardio-selective beta-blocker that helps lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular function by reducing heart rate and the force of heart contractions.

Metoprolol Tartrate (Lopressor)

Metoprolol tartrate is another cardio-selective beta-blocker that effectively manages high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions by regulating heart rate and blood vessel function.

Metoprolol Succinate (Toprol XL)

Metoprolol succinate is an extended-release formulation of metoprolol that provides long-lasting blood pressure control and helps manage other heart-related conditions.

Propranolol Hydrochloride (Inderal)

Propranolol hydrochloride is a nonselective beta-blocker that not only helps manage high blood pressure but also effectively treats migraines, tremors, and anxiety symptoms.

While beta-blockers are generally well-tolerated, they may cause side effects in some individuals, including:

It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider about any questions or concerns regarding beta-blockers or other medications being taken, as well as to report any side effects experienced while on these medications.

By working closely with a healthcare professional, individuals can effectively manage their high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions using beta-blockers while minimizing the risk of adverse effects and ensuring optimal treatment outcomes.

Medications Used in Cancer Treatment

Many individuals undergoing cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, experience significant fatigue that can persist for weeks or months after the completion of their treatment. This fatigue affects between 15% and 90% of people, with an average impact on around 75% of those with advanced cancer. The tiredness is mainly due to the direct effects of the treatment on the body, as it damages or destroys healthy cells while targeting cancer cells, requiring extra energy for repair and replacement.

Chemotherapy, in particular, is known to cause fatigue in nearly all patients. The severity of this side effect is often reported as the most disruptive by those taking cancer drugs. Hormone therapies and targeted cancer drugs or immunotherapy can also lead to tiredness during treatment, with the severity decreasing over a few weeks after the treatment ends. However, it may take up to a year for individuals to return to their normal energy levels post-treatment.

Other medications used in cancer care, such as bisphosphonates for treating bone damage, painkillers, anti-sickness drugs, and steroids, can also contribute to feelings of fatigue. Bisphosphonates may cause mild tiredness that resolves within a few weeks post-treatment, while painkillers can initially cause drowsiness that usually diminishes after a few days of use. Opioids, a type of medicine used to relieve moderate to severe cancer-related pain, can also lead to sleepiness as a side effect.

Around 30% of people may experience chronic fatigue for a few years after cancer treatment. This prolonged fatigue can significantly impact their quality of life and daily functioning.

It is essential for individuals undergoing cancer treatment to communicate any persistent or severe fatigue to their healthcare provider. Proper evaluation and management of this side effect can help improve their overall well-being and ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment.

Gut Medications

When it comes to managing gastrointestinal disorders, gut medications play a crucial role in alleviating symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, it’s essential to be aware that these medications can also lead to drowsiness as a side effect. By understanding the potential impact of gut medications on your sleep patterns, you can make informed decisions about your treatment plan and lifestyle adjustments.

One commonly prescribed gut medication is hyoscyamine, which helps control symptoms associated with various gastrointestinal tract disorders. Hyoscyamine is used to treat conditions such as bladder spasms, peptic ulcer disease, irritable bowel syndrome, cystitis, and pancreatitis. Available in different forms like tablets, extended-release capsules, and liquid for oral consumption, hyoscyamine works by targeting specific neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate the digestive system.

While hyoscyamine is effective in managing gut-related issues, it’s crucial to be aware of its potential side effects. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, constipation, and dry mouth. In some cases, more serious side effects like diarrhea, skin rash, eye pain, and fast or irregular heartbeat may occur, requiring immediate medical attention. If you experience any concerning symptoms while taking hyoscyamine or other gut medications, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider promptly.

Proper storage and disposal of gut medications are also important considerations. Hyoscyamine should be stored in a tightly closed container at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and out of reach of children. When it comes to disposing of unneeded medication, it’s crucial to avoid flushing it down the toilet. Instead, utilize designated medicine take-back programs to ensure safe and environmentally friendly disposal.

“Drowsiness is a common side effect of many gut medications, and it’s essential for individuals to be aware of this potential impact on their daily activities and overall well-being.” – Dr. Sarah Thompson, Gastroenterologist

In addition to gut medications, other types of medications can also contribute to drowsiness and fatigue. Some antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin, may cause tiredness or weakness as a rare side effect. When prescribed antibiotics, it’s important to discuss the potential for fatigue with your doctor or pharmacist. Other common side effects of antibiotics include digestive problems, headaches, fungal infections, photosensitivity, allergic reactions, depression, and anxiety.

It’s worth noting that antibiotics can interact with various other medications, such as antihistamines, blood thinners, diuretics, muscle relaxants, antifungal drugs, antacids, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Therefore, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions and minimize the risk of adverse effects, including drowsiness.

Beyond gut medications and antibiotics, there are several other categories of medications that may cause fatigue as a side effect. These include:

• Antihistamines
• Cough medications
• Pain drugs
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy medications
• Heart drugs
• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Blood pressure medications

If you are taking any of these medications and experience persistent drowsiness or fatigue, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help assess your individual situation and recommend appropriate strategies to manage medication-induced drowsiness while ensuring effective treatment of your underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, gut medications play a vital role in managing gastrointestinal disorders, but it’s crucial to be aware of their potential impact on drowsiness. By understanding the side effects, proper storage and disposal methods, and potential interactions with other medications, you can work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that minimizes drowsiness while effectively addressing your gut health needs.

Muscle Relaxants and Pain Medications

Muscle relaxants and pain medications are commonly prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms, stiffness, and discomfort. While they can provide much-needed relief, these medications often come with the side effect of drowsiness, which can impact daily activities and overall quality of life.

Muscle Relaxants

Muscle relaxants work by acting on the nerves in the brain and spinal cord to relax muscles. Two common examples are carisoprodol (Soma) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril). These medications can be effective in treating muscle spasms and pain, but they may also cause drowsiness, fatigue, and dizziness.

It’s essential to be aware that some muscle relaxants, such as carisoprodol and diazepam, are controlled substances with addiction potential. Misuse of these medications can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and hallucinations.

Carisoprodol (Soma)

Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant that works by blocking pain sensations between the nerves and the brain. It is typically prescribed for short-term use to treat acute musculoskeletal pain. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and headache.

Carisoprodol is a controlled substance, and its use should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional to reduce the risk of addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

Cyclobenzaprine is another muscle relaxant that works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to the brain. It is often prescribed to treat muscle spasms and acute musculoskeletal pain. Cyclobenzaprine comes in oral tablet form with strengths of 5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 10 mg.

• Adult dosage for relief of muscle spasms typically ranges from 5-10 mg taken 3 times per day.
• Children aged 15-17 years may also take 5-10 mg of cyclobenzaprine 3 times per day.
• For older adults (aged 65 years and older), dosage adjustments may be necessary due to changes in kidney and liver function.

Common side effects of cyclobenzaprine include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Alcohol interaction with cyclobenzaprine can increase the risk of dizziness and drowsiness.

Opioid Pain Medications

Opioid pain medications, such as fentanyl, oxycodone, and morphine, work by mimicking the effects of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. While they can be highly effective in managing severe pain, opioids also have a significant risk of causing drowsiness and sedation.

Long-term use of opioids can lead to physical dependence and addiction, making it crucial to follow a healthcare provider’s guidance when using these medications.

Seizure or Epilepsy Medications (Anticonvulsants)

Anticonvulsants, such as benzodiazepines, carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek), topiramate (Topamax), and valproic acid (Depakene, Depakote), are primarily used to treat seizures and epilepsy. However, they can also be prescribed off-label for managing muscle spasms and spasticity.

These medications work by altering brain cell activity or the neurotransmitters they use to send messages, which can result in drowsiness as a side effect.

When taking muscle relaxants, opioid pain medications, or anticonvulsants, it is essential to be aware of the potential for drowsiness and to follow the prescribed dosage carefully. Consult with a healthcare professional to discuss any concerns about side effects or interactions with other medications.

Managing Medication-Induced Drowsiness

If you’re experiencing drowsiness as a side effect of your medication, it’s crucial to address this issue with your healthcare provider. They can help you find ways to manage these side effects effectively, ensuring that you can continue your treatment while minimizing the impact on your daily life. Remember, never stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor first.

One approach to managing medication-induced drowsiness is through dosage adjustments. Your doctor may recommend taking your medication at a different time of day, such as in the evening or before bed, to minimize the impact on your waking hours. They may also suggest a lower dose or a gradual increase in dosage to help your body adapt to the medication more easily.

For over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness, such as certain allergy medicines, your pharmacist may recommend non-drowsy alternatives. These options can provide relief from your symptoms without the added side effect of sleepiness. It’s essential to read labels carefully and consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication schedule.

In addition to medication adjustments, lifestyle changes can also help combat drowsiness. Engaging in physical activities like going for a walk or practicing deep breathing exercises can boost your energy levels and improve alertness. However, be sure to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you’re feeling drowsy, as this can be dangerous.

Tiredness and fatigue caused by medicines often go away within 3 to 7 days after starting the medication or increasing the dose. If you experience excessive tiredness or inability to stay awake, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

To support better sleep quality and combat medication-related drowsiness, consider implementing good sleep hygiene practices. This includes avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and creating a comfortable sleep environment. A supportive pillow, like those recommended by Pillow Haven Hub, can also contribute to a more restful night’s sleep.

In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe an additional medication to counteract the drowsiness caused by your primary treatment. However, this should only be done under close medical supervision to avoid potential drug interactions and further side effects.

Remember, open communication with your healthcare team is key to managing medication side effects successfully. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns or questions you have about your treatment plan. Together, you can find the best approach to minimize drowsiness while ensuring that you receive the full benefits of your medication.

Conclusion

As we have seen, a wide range of medications can cause drowsiness as a side effect, impacting daily life for many people. With over one-third of Americans experiencing insomnia and not getting enough sleep, it’s clear that medication safety and managing side effects are crucial considerations. By working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can find the right balance to minimize drowsiness while still effectively treating their conditions.

Whether using prescription sleeping pills, antidepressants, anxiety medications, or other drugs that may cause sleepiness, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and to follow dosage instructions carefully. For example, taking sleeping pills only when you can sleep for at least 7-8 hours can help prevent daytime drowsiness and cognitive impairment. Consulting healthcare providers regularly can also help identify any needed adjustments to medication regimens.

In addition to medication management, nonpharmacologic behavioral methods have shown therapeutic benefits for treating insomnia and promoting better sleep. By combining these approaches with open communication with healthcare providers, people can take control of their sleep health and overall well-being. With the right strategies and support, it’s possible to minimize the impact of medication-induced drowsiness and lead a more alert, energized life.