Many people these days have trouble sleeping. This is due to constant stress, anxiety, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet and poor environment. To get rid of insomnia, you must first eliminate its cause. But, unfortunately, not everyone is able to, for example, travel out of town due to work pressure or not worry when a loved one is sick. Therefore, many resort to sleeping pills.
Some, without understanding the composition of the product and without familiarizing themselves with the contraindications, receive not only an increase in existing symptoms, but also complications in the form of allergies, as well as exacerbation of chronic diseases.
Therefore, it is better to give preference to safe remedies for insomnia without side effects. We will find out below which sleeping pills are the most effective and harmless.
What sleeping pills are best to buy?
Most serious sleeping pills have a narcotic effect and change the structure of sleep, so they are prescribed only by a doctor and are available with a prescription. The class of prescription sleeping pills includes barbiturates and benzodiazepine-based drugs. Such drugs have a sedative or stimulating effect and are prescribed according to an individual regimen. Sleeping pills without a prescription are a solution if you are temporarily unable to see a specialist or in case of short-term sleep problems.
Modern synthetic drugs based on ethanolamines are relatively safe, do not change sleep phases and provide a sleep duration of up to 8 hours. And as a pleasant bonus from taking them, you will get strong nerves and a good mood.
Melatonin will give you sound sleep without the addictive effect and dizziness. A synthetic analogue of the sleep hormone regulates rest-wake cycles, and has a positive effect on the emotional and intellectual sphere. In addition, melatonin is an excellent remedy for weather dependence, as it adapts the body to changing weather conditions.
There are homeopathic medicines on sale that are safe for children and the elderly, and which, when used regularly, relieve insomnia. If sleep problems are the consequences of neuroses and worries, choose sleeping pills with a sedative effect. Also suitable for children are soothing herbal infusions and syrups that will calm a hyperactive baby and give him a sound and healthy sleep.
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The best homeopathic sleeping pills without a prescription
Homeopathy is the safest way to treat insomnia. These products contain herbal extracts that relax the nervous system, muscles and normalize sleep. Don’t expect a miracle from one pill, but the full course of treatment will in most cases relieve you of problems falling asleep. And after it’s over, you won’t encounter insomnia again.
Sandoz “Persen Night” – herbal cocktail for insomnia
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The herbal complex for insomnia is recommended for adults and children over 12 years old. The medicine contains valerian, peppermint and lemon balm. The drug is taken 2 tablets an hour before bedtime. The complex is contraindicated in case of arterial hypotension, diseases of the biliary tract, pregnancy and lactation. Exceeding recommended dosages and prolonged use provoke allergic reactions, bronchospasm and constipation.
Reviews about Persen are mostly positive. Thus, buyers note that regular use of the medicine really relieves insomnia and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system.
Advantages:
- Plant composition;
- Prolonged effect;
- Minimum contraindications;
- Has no serious adverse reactions;
- Can be taken from 12 years of age;
- Affordable price (about 200 rubles).
Flaws:
- Not effective for severe sleep problems.
Persen Night is a safe sleeping pill for children and adults, recommended at the initial stage of treatment of insomnia.
Danapha Pharmaceutical Joint Stock Company "Lotusonic" - sleeping pills for hypotensive patients
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
95%
buyers recommend this product
A combined anti-stress and sleeping pill of herbal origin is effective in solving minor sleep problems. The product contains extracts of lotus, thuja, date, mulberry and erythrina. These components eliminate the symptoms of neurasthenia, have a vasodilating effect, relieve muscle tension and give sound and long-lasting sleep.
The drug is taken by adults, 1 tablet an hour before bedtime, the duration of treatment is 1 month. The medicine is contraindicated for minors, pregnant and lactating women. The drug has no side effects, but prolonged use and increased dosage may lead to asthenia and drowsiness.
Advantages:
- Effectively relieves insomnia;
- Strengthens the nervous system;
- Minimum contraindications;
- Safe composition;
- There is no withdrawal effect;
- Price 200 rubles.
Flaws:
- A noticeable effect is achieved only after 1-2 weeks.
Due to its vasodilating effect, lotusonic for insomnia is especially recommended for use by hypotensive patients and people suffering from vegetative-vascular dystonia.
Surya Herbal Limited “Tripsidan” – herbal lullaby
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
A herbal sleeping pill with a sedative and cardioprotective effect contains extracts of withania, terminalia adjuna, valerian and nordoastachis grandiflora. The complex is effective in solving sleep problems caused by emotional disturbances. The drug in tablet form is prescribed from 10 years of age, 1 capsule 2-3 times a day. Duration of therapy is up to 6 weeks.
The only contraindications to its use are periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding. Long-term use of Trypsidan often provokes weakness, slow reactions and allergic skin reactions. The product has a cumulative effect, and visible improvements in the normalization of sleep are noted after just a week of taking it.
Advantages:
- Herbal formula;
- Minimum contraindications;
- Prolonged action;
- Strengthens the heart muscle;
- Has a beneficial effect on the emotional state.
Flaws:
- There is no immediate effect.
Trypsidan is a safe sleeping pill recommended for anxious and suspicious people suffering from psychosomatic disorders.
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Side effects of sleep medications
Side effects are rare when using herbal sleeping pills. However, taking pharmacological drugs can lead to serious side effects. Especially if you take them in large dosages or mix them with incompatible drugs.
Side effects of medications that improve sleep may include:
- Headache;
- Daytime sleepiness;
- Allergy;
- Skin itching, etc.
Side effects can also occur with abrupt withdrawal of sleeping pills . Although this is mainly observed with potent pharmacological drugs.
Abrupt withdrawal of sleeping pills often leads to
- Deterioration of mood;
- Depression;
- Headaches;
- Gastrointestinal disorders;
- Decreased motivation and performance.
Please note that strong prescription sleeping pills can be addictive and often become less effective when taken over a long period of time.
The best histamine H1 receptor blockers
Non-narcotic synthetic drugs based on ethanolamine derivatives inhibit the brain structures responsible for wakefulness, resulting in sound sleep occurring within 30 minutes. The effectiveness of the drugs is comparable to barbiturates, while they are not addictive and do not have a toxic effect. The drugs from this medicinal group also have disadvantages. Thus, they provoke lethargy, apathy and constipation, so we do not recommend taking them for more than 5 days without a doctor’s permission.
UPSA SAS Donormil – a magic pill for healthy sleep
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
96%
buyers recommend this product
Doxylamine-based sleeping pills are taken 30 minutes before bedtime and provide sound sleep lasting up to 6-8 hours. The drug is taken for irregular problems with falling asleep, 1 tablet for 2-5 days and has a moderate sedative effect.
The medicine is prescribed to people from 15 to 65 years old who do not have problems with the urinary system and visual organs. In addition, its long-term use leads to tachycardia, drowsiness and urinary retention. Do not combine Donormil with tranquilizers and alcohol, as this will cause serious disturbances in the functioning of the respiratory system.
Advantages:
- Safe if instructions are followed;
- Ensures falling asleep within 30 minutes;
- Affordable price (from 100 to 350 rubles);
- Available in various packaging (10 and 30 pcs.);
- Minimum contraindications.
Flaws:
- Severe adverse reactions are possible if used incorrectly.
Donormil is recommended for eliminating short-term problems with falling asleep for healthy middle-aged people.
FP JSC Obolenskoe “Reslip” – say “no” to asomnia
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
An effective drug for solving occasional sleep problems in tablet form contains 15 mg of doxylamine, due to which it has an additional sedative, antihistamine and anticholinergic effect. The product is taken 1-2 tablets 30 minutes before bedtime by persons from 5 to 65 years old - but no more than 5 days in a row. Increasing the duration of use leads to problems with urination, dry mouth and weakness.
Avoid taking Reslip if you have glaucoma, problems with the prostate gland, or during lactation. But the drug underwent clinical studies in groups of pregnant women, which confirmed its complete safety for women in special situations.
Advantages:
- Available in packs of 10, 14, 28 and 30 pcs.;
- A small number of contraindications;
- Allowed for pregnant women;
- Calming effect;
- Affordable price (from 120 to 300 rubles).
Flaws:
- Not suitable for long-term use.
Reslip is a safe sleeping pill that is suitable for occasional use even during pregnancy.
The best over-the-counter melatonin-based sleep aids
Melatonin-based medications compensate for the lack of sleep hormone produced by the pineal gland. With them, the long-awaited fall asleep occurs within 40 minutes. The product has no side effects and is especially recommended in old age, when the synthesis of your own melatonin slows down. Taking such medications is recommended during long flights, traveling on noisy trains, and for occasional problems falling asleep.
JSC Nizhpharm "Melarena" - for healthy sleep and a cheerful morning
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The drug contains 3 mg of melatonin, which ensures rapid falling asleep, eliminates night awakenings and eliminates morning fatigue. The product in the form of tablets is taken from 18 years of age, 1 piece 30 minutes before going to bed. The drug is recommended for prolonged insomnia, as well as for frequent changes of time zones and circadian rhythm disorders (work at night).
The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, with autoimmune and kidney diseases, allergies, diabetes and epilepsy. In addition, Melaren has a slight contraceptive effect, so avoid taking it when planning a pregnancy.
Advantages:
- Safe;
- Not addictive;
- Does not reduce the productivity of cognitive processes;
- Improves adaptation to changing weather conditions and time zones;
- Ensures falling asleep within 30-40 minutes;
- Affordable price (about 330 rubles).
Flaws:
- There is no cumulative effect.
Melarena is a universal adaptogenic drug recommended for eliminating occasional problems with falling asleep and for people suffering from meteosensitivity.
FP JSC Obolenskoe "Melaritm" - regulator of biological rhythms
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
Tablets for quickly falling asleep and easy adaptation to environmental conditions will be appreciated by those suffering from insomnia and weather dependence. The product contains 3 mg of melatonin and is taken 0.5 or 1 tablet per day 30 minutes before bedtime. The complex regulates the sleep-wake cycle, improves the quality of rest and provides vivid and emotionally rich dreams.
The drug does not have a prolonged effect, so it is suitable for solving short-term problems with falling asleep during changes in time zones. A pleasant bonus from taking the complex is strengthening the immune system and having an antioxidant effect. But the drug is contraindicated for minors, people suffering from epilepsy, diabetes, allergies and blood diseases. Also, do not take Melarithm during pregnancy and lactation.
Advantages:
- Available in packs of 6, 10, 12, 20 and 24 pcs.;
- Affordable price (from 200 to 500 rubles);
- Eliminates weather dependence;
- Strengthens the immune system.
Flaws:
- There are contraindications.
Melarithm is a godsend for people who have moved to another country and are experiencing difficulties adapting to changed time zones.
LLC Bakter "Sonnovan" - a product with a minimum of side effects and contraindications
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
A synthetic analogue of the sleep hormone will provide long-term rest and sweet dreams. The complex for improving the body’s adaptation promotes natural falling asleep half an hour after taking the pill. The product does not have a cumulative hypnotic effect, so if you have serious sleep problems, it is not advisable to take it.
The product contains 3 mg of melatonin and, in addition to making you fall asleep easier, eliminates headaches and weakness due to changing weather conditions. Sonnovan does not provoke addiction and is suitable for people over 18 years of age who do not have diseases of the nervous, urinary or cardiovascular systems.
Advantages:
- Not addictive;
- Has no adverse reactions;
- Facilitates adaptation;
- Affordable price (about 300 rubles).
Flaws:
- There is no prolonged effect.
Sonnovan is often prescribed to older people who have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
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conclusions
There are many over-the-counter remedies for insomnia. Each drug differs in composition, strength and duration of action, contraindications and possible side effects. They are effective for short-term and intermittent sleep disturbances caused by frequent flights, daily work schedules or nervous strain. However, severe disorders may be a symptom of a serious illness (hyperthyroidism, apnea, Parkinson's disease, depression, brain damage). And if an over-the-counter sleeping pill does not help restore sleep in a few days, you should not look for a more effective drug. It is imperative to consult a doctor who, after examination, will make an accurate diagnosis and select the appropriate treatment.
The best sleeping pills with a calming effect
In most cases, sleep disturbances are a consequence of anxiety and stress, and the best helpers in this case will be sedatives with a mild hypnotic effect. Medications taken in a course strengthen the nervous system and improve mood, relieving a person of anxious thoughts and sleepless nights.
Sanofi Magne “Good Sleep” – a mineral complex with a hypnotic and cardioprotective effect
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
This drug will keep you healthy and strong nerves during stressful situations. The product contains magnesium, fatty acids, tryptophan and valerian extract. This formula strengthens the walls of blood vessels and the heart muscle, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, and gives a mild hypnotic and sedative effect.
The complex in the form of tablets is taken for 1 to 3 months, 2 pieces with dinner. The drug has no serious contraindications, but due to insufficient clinical data on safety, avoid taking it during pregnancy and lactation.
Advantages:
- Has a beneficial effect on the nervous and cardiovascular systems;
- Relieves insomnia;
- Has no contraindications;
- Does not cause adverse reactions;
- Has no withdrawal syndrome.
Flaws:
- Not suitable during pregnancy and lactation.
Magne “Good Sleep” is a universal mineral complex, especially recommended for use for insomnia by elderly people and people suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system.
Evalar “Sleep Formula” – for strong nerves and healthy sleep
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
A combination of motherwort, hops, magnesium and B vitamins reduces nervous excitability, strengthens the cardiovascular system and eliminates problems with falling asleep. The drug in tablet form is prescribed to people over 14 years of age, 2 tablets 40 minutes before the planned rest. The course of treatment is 20 days.
The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation; in other cases, taking it will only bring benefits without causing adverse reactions or withdrawal symptoms. Patients note the high effectiveness of the drug. With a long course, it completely relieves insomnia and has a moderate anti-stress effect.
Advantages:
- Safe composition;
- Prolonged effect;
- Eliminates the effects of stress;
- Minimal contraindications;
- Affordable price (350 rubles).
Flaws:
- Allergic reactions are possible.
The sleep formula is a godsend for people with a labile nervous system and suffering from increased anxiety.
Editor's Choice
| Rating | #1 | #2 | #3 |
| Name | EuroHerbs Valerian Extract | Rest and sleep by Mason Natural | Herbal sleeping pill Now Foods |
Herbal sleeping pill Now Foods
The American company Now Foods has been producing dietary supplements since 1968; today it produces 1,500 types of drugs for health and sports. Now Sleep contains valerian root extract and hop cone extract, ascorbic acid.
The active components of these two plants contribute to the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, which relieves nervous tension and helps to relax. Thus, it helps you fall asleep faster.
Helps with insomnia and neurasthenia.
To learn more
Rest and sleep by Mason Natural
The dietary supplement was produced by the American company Mason Natural, which has been producing vitamins since 1967. All products are certified according to the ASI food safety system.
The drug contains valerian officinalis, valerian root extract, hop powder, passionflower incarnate herb, celery seed powder, lupine flowers, orange peel powder. All ingredients are in bioavailable form, enhance and complement each other.
The active components of the drug have a mild sedative effect and improve sleep structure. With long-term daily use for 3-4 weeks, the hypnotic effect increases.
Helps with insomnia.
To learn more
EuroHerbs Valerian Extract
Valerian root extract was produced by the German representative office of the American company California Gold Nutrition. The production uses medicinal herbs that have undergone three-stage testing of raw materials for the presence of active ingredients.
The drug does not contain soy, gluten, or GMOs. The extract contains 0.8% valeric and isovaleric acids, borneol, borneol ester, organic acids, tannins, alkaloids.
The active ingredients complement and enhance each other. Refers to mild sedatives.
Valerian improves sleep structure and enhances the effect of other sleeping pills. The main effect in the treatment of insomnia with valerian extract is cumulative.
A pronounced hypnotic effect appears after 3–4 weeks of daily use. Helps with insomnia and neurasthenia.
To learn more
The best over-the-counter sleeping pills for children
Does your baby have restless sleep? This is probably due to the child's hyperactivity. If you have persistent problems falling asleep, you should consult a doctor. Until then, safe children's complexes with a sedative and muscle relaxant effect will come to the rescue, which will quickly lull the little fidget to sleep.
Kuror – a lullaby for little ones
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
Herbal drops with a calming and hypnotic effect contain extracts of hawthorn, motherwort, mint and oregano. The drug can be taken from 1 year of age to combat irritability, tearfulness, restless sleep and arrhythmia. The minimum single dosage for the smallest is 2 drops; children over 5 years old are given the drug 5-10 drops.
The complex is contraindicated only if you are allergic to the components of the formula and, in addition to healthy sleep, is an excellent prevention of vegetative-vascular dystonia, neuroses and atopic dermatitis.
Advantages:
- Can be taken from 1 year;
- Wide range of applications;
- Affordable cost (about 200 rubles);
- No contraindications;
- Complex positive effect on the nervous and cardiovascular systems.
Flaws:
- Contains alcohol.
“Bayu-Bai” drops will calm a capricious and disobedient baby and will be an ideal remedy for eliminating the initial manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia.
ZdravLandiya "Smoky-noky" - a delicacy for sleep
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
Any little picky child will enjoy this sweet syrup with a soothing effect. The product for children over 3 years old strengthens the nervous system, relieves muscle tension and has a beneficial effect on vision. The collection contains extracts of chamomile, lemon balm, blueberry, fennel, thyme and mint.
The complex is given 1-2 teaspoons twice a day for 2 weeks. Moms claim that “Sleep-noki” really normalizes the baby’s sleep and eliminates the symptoms of hyperactivity. The only contraindication to its use is individual intolerance.
Advantages:
- Plant composition;
- Mild hypnotic effect;
- Sedative effect;
- Safety;
- No contraindications;
- It costs only 100 rubles.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for children under 3 years old.
“Spoki-knocks” is a universal herbal complex that can be given to every child from 3 years of age to prevent and combat insomnia, neuroses and vision problems.
Combination pills for insomnia without addiction
Combination tablets include:
- Novo-Passit tablets - contain extracts of soothing herbs and an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety effect); side effects: lethargy, dizziness, nausea; not prescribed under the age of 12 years;
- Persen tablets - contain valerian, lemon balm, mint; eliminates tension, anxiety, promotes falling asleep and the development of physiological sleep; side effects: allergies, constipation; contraindications: low blood pressure, calculous cholecystitis, pregnancy, lactation, age under 12 years;
- Fitorelax tablets – contain valerian and hawthorn; calming effect, promotes sleep; side effects - lethargy in the morning; contraindications: pregnancy, lactation, childhood.
