7 best prescription sleep aids

Prescription sleep aids are medications that are typically used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. They are prescribed by a healthcare provider and should be taken under their guidance. Some commonly prescribed sleep aids include:

  1. Benzodiazepines: These are a class of drugs that work by depressing the central nervous system. They are often used for their sedative effects. Examples include diazepam (Valium) and temazepam (Restoril).

  2. Non-Benzodiazepine Hypnotics (Z-Drugs): These drugs work similarly to benzodiazepines but are considered a newer generation. Examples include zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon (Sonata), and eszopiclone (Lunesta).

  3. Melatonin Receptor Agonists: These drugs work by affecting the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. Ramelteon (Rozerem) is an example.

  4. Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications, particularly those in the class of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can be prescribed for insomnia. Examples include amitriptyline and trazodone.

  5. Antihistamines: Certain antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or doxylamine, can have sedative effects and are sometimes used as sleep aids.

Regarding Valerian and other herbal supplements, they are considered natural remedies for sleep disorders. Valerian root is one of the most commonly used herbal supplements for sleep. It's believed to work by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain.

Other herbal supplements like chamomile, passionflower, and lavender are also believed to have calming effects and are sometimes used to promote sleep. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of herbal supplements can vary from person to person, and they may not work for everyone.

Vitamins and dietary supplements can also play a role in promoting better sleep. For example, magnesium and B vitamins are believed to support healthy sleep patterns. Additionally, some people find relief from sleep issues by taking supplements like melatonin, which is a hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles.

It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement, even if they are available over the counter.They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and medical history. They can also ensure that any supplements or medications you take do not interact negatively with each other or with any existing health conditions.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best prescription sleep aids on the market
  

Turmeric Curcumin Melatonin Valerian Supplement. Ginger L Theanine Cinnamon Bioperine. Sleep Aid, Antioxidant Properties for Occasional Joint Pain Relief, Supports Inflammatory Response. (60)

Vimerson Health

Based on 887 reviews Check latest price
  • Why choose us: Are you having restless nights? Experiencing insomnia frequently? Vimerson Health's Turmeric Melatonin Valerian promotes healthy and undisturbed sleep cycles* encouraging the deep restful sleep you require to perform at your optimum all day; It also enhances energy and improves mood*, leading to positive mindsets and greater mental clarity; It supports joint health, flexibility and fluidity* and it encourages tranquility and relaxation*
  • Enhanced mood positive mindset: This superb concoction of plants and nutrients are designed to reduce occasional stress while supporting your immune system;* It creates an optimal mental focus for improved sleep and increased cognitive performance;* Supporting healthy weight management* and acting as natural occasional joint pain relief*, allowing you to move around with the flexibility and fluidity you deserve, this is the perfect supplement for those who require joint support
  • Plant-based antioxidant heaven: This is a majestic combination of nature's finest antioxidants in the form of Ginger, Cinnamon, Turmeric, and Bioperine; They aid in the control of free radicals present in the body slowing down the signs of aging and maintaining a healthy oxidative balance;* They quash inflammation and are known to assist in turning off pain inducing compounds in the body;* In addition, they encourage healthy glucose metabolism* and support heart, digestive, and brain health*
  • Our promise to you: Each batch we produce is packed with love and real ingredients for real results; Vimerson Health’s Turmeric Melatonin is formulated safely and gently with no dangerous extraction processes or harsh chemicals; It is made NATURAL and contains zero preservatives, soy, sugar, GMOs, gluten, and dairy; You're getting more goodness per capsule than anyone else; Our Turmeric Melatonin provides you the sleep aid you require to have a deep restful sleep
  • Vegan, gluten free, non-GMO: This, and all our products, are manufactured in the USA meeting GMP standards; Here at Vimerson Health we select only the high quality herbs, minerals and vitamins for optimal potency and efficacy; Our standards of testing surpass any others on the market, ensuring that only the positive result is delivered to you; Our advanced formula is suitable for men, women and seniors, and is lovingly compacted in veggie easy-to-swallow capsules

User questions & answers

Question: Between this and the natural sleep aid capsule wich one is consider best
Answer: Dear Customer, Thank you for reaching out to us! It depends on which health benefits you are looking for. If you need something only for sleep, you can take Natural Sleep Aid, but if you want to support your joint health as well, then it is better to choose Turmeric Melatonin Valerian. Have a good one! Anastasia Customer Happiness Team Vimerson Health
Question: What type of cinnamon is in these, Ceylon or cassia
Answer: Dear Customer, We appreciate your interest in our products. To answer your inquiry, it is Cinnamomun Cassia We hope this information will help you. Let us know if you have further questions.  Lyn Customer Happiness Team Vimerson Health
Question: Made in China
Answer: Dear Customer, Thank you for reaching out to us! Please be also informed that all of our products are made in the USA in FDA registered facilities from carefully selected natural and non-GMO ingredients. We always put our customers' health first. Have a good one! Anastasia Customer Happiness Team Vimerson Health
Question: Do these have any animal by-products in the ingredients
Answer: Hi, Thank you for your inquiry. To answer your inquiry, there are no animal ingredients on this product. We hope this information will help you.  If there's anything else we can do to help, please let us know Lyn Customer Happiness Team Vimerson Health

Product features

TURMERIC

Turmeric is an ancient flowering plant Curcuma longa of the ginger family, that has been traditionally used for thousands of years across India and Asia. Often referred to as the “golden spice”, turmeric is one of the most wholesome and most complete herbs on the planet. It contains more than 300 naturally occurring components, such as Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B8, B12, C, E & K, Calcium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium & Zinc. Ancient cultures consumed this majestic spice and these benefits of this vibrant orange root continue today. Turmeric is a highly prized dietary supplement shown to support joint health, heart health, digestive health, and brain function.

MELATONIN

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, signaling to your body when it is time to go to bed and sleep. Commonly referred to as the “sleep hormone”, it works in synchronization with your Circadian Rhythm, which is your body’s internal clock. Typically Melatonin levels start to rise in the mid-to-late evening after the sun has set. They stay elevated during the dark, then they drop back down in the early morning after the sun rises, causing you to awaken. It is found in a vast array of nature’s finest fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds. Highly regarded as one of the most effective sleep aids, Melatonin also supports eye, heart, and digestive health.

VALERIAN

Valerian is a perennial flowering plant Valeriana officinalis, and has been used as a healing herb since at least the ancient Greek and Roman times. Growing pink flowers, it’s healing properties are found in the root of the plant, and it grows hollow stems. Valerian has been studied for containing various beneficial compounds, known to aid restful sleep and provide relief from occasional stress. These compounds are valeric acid, valproic acid, flavanones, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), sesquiterpenes and several alkaloids. These contribute to Valerian’s many magical properties, which have been studied extensively, and are frequently used as a calming aid for “nervous” stomachs.

BIOPERINE

Bioperine is an advanced patented form of Black Pepper Extract from the plant Piper nigrum, which is commonly celebrated as the “king of spices”. The Curcumin present in Turmeric is not easily absorbed in the body. This wondrous extract has been shown to greatly enhance absorption of Turmeric, Curcumin and all other nutrients in the body. This process is referred to as bio-enhancement. The essential oils and compounds found in this magic spice may support your digestion power by assisting gastro-intestinal enzyme reactions. This extract contains Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B9, C, E & K, Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium, Manganese & Zinc.

Restorol | Natural Sleep Aid – Relief from Jet Lag & Sleep Deprivation – Regulate Sleep Cycle – Get Restful Sleep (30ct)

Herbal Research

Based on 196 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Discover the Non Habit Forming Solution to Getting Deep Restful Sleep

Restorol is an herbal sleep aid designed to suppress anxiety & restlessness. Soothing natural ingredients allow you to relax as you drift off into sleep quickly & effortlessly. Restorol ensures you remain asleep, uninterrupted, through the night.

There are many factors that can disrupt your body’s natural sleep process.

working night shifts jet lag from air travel stress & anxiety a restless mind medication caffeine

Lack of proper sleep doesn’t just make you tired. It can negatively affect your whole body & cause many unwanted effects…

irritability anxiety depression inability to focus chronic fatigue weight gain poor judgment memory loss lowered immunity

Getting enough sleep is crucial to living a healthy, happy life. Restorol’s extra strength formula blends naturally occurring components of your body's own sleep process with herbal remedies used for centuries to provide relief to those struggling with sleep.

→ Melatonin | promotes quality REM sleep & helps regulate circadian rhythm & sleep cycle

→ L Theanine | promotes relaxation & calmness

→ 5 HTP | improves mood & reduces stressful feelings that can keep you up at night

→ Lemon balm extract | helps you unwind, fall asleep easily, & sleep uninterrupted.

→ Hops | used as a natural treatment to help alleviate restlessness, anxiety, and sleeplessness

→ Passion flower powder | helps relax the nerves & reduce stress

→ Chamomile | promotes tranquility & restful sleep

Unlike some prescription medications that have you waking up to a dizzying brain fog, Restorol ensures you awake refreshed & ready to go. No groggy feeling. Deep, restful sleep gives you higher energy levels & better health. Try Restorol today for a safe & non addictive alternative to synthetic sleeping pills - no prescription needed!

  • GET TO SLEEP FAST – works fast to help you fall asleep right away, so you don’t have to spend your nights tossing & turning
  • EASE INTO A DEEP, QUALITY SLUMBER – powerful natural ingredients allow you to sleep uninterrupted throughout the night & won’t leave you feeling like a zombie the next day
  • HAVE MORE ENERGY & FOCUS – a solid, proper night’s rest fuels you with the energy you need to wake up feeling bright & refreshed - ready to take on the day
  • REGULATE YOUR SLEEP CYCLE – control sleeping patterns & get in tune with your body’s natural sleep cycle to maintain optimal physical & mental health
  • GET GREAT SLEEP WITHOUT THE SIDE EFFECTS – Restorol is non habit forming - gentle on the body - & has no scary side effects - making it a great alternative to prescription drugs

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a form of Temazepam
Answer: According the box it comes in ,no, I checked all the ingredients and none of them Temazepam. Hope this helps
Question: How long for you to fall asleep
Answer: It took maybe 35-40 minutes. But I wasn’t impressed. I have better luck with Zzzquil.
Question: Is this product gluten free
Answer: Expense but it works

Avinol PM Extra Strength | All-in-One Natural Sleep Aid for Deep Restful Sleep – Relieve Insomnia & Jet Lag (30 ct)

Advanced Nutraceuticals

Based on 603 reviews Check latest price
  • DISCOVER THE ALL-IN-ONE SLEEPING PILL – our natural sleep aid pills are the only ones that have ALL the major non prescription ingredients associated with quality sleep & relaxation. Get the benefits of 10 of the most effective sleep ingredients available over the counter in the convenience of 1 single tablet
  • RELAX AS YOU GENTLY EASE INTO SLEEP – kick back & unwind as you slip into deep relaxation while Avinol PM Extra Strength soothes & calms the mind so you can fall quickly and gently into sleep
  • EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF DEEP RESTFUL SLUMBER – our new powerful herbal formula ensures you get the most out of your night’s sleep, so you wake up refreshed & ready to greet the day
  • SLEEP DEEP WITH OUR NEW EXTRA STRENGTH FORMULA – stay asleep peacefully through the night with our extra strength formula.

User questions & answers

Question: Just got my trial package & would like to no why under other ingredients they list a kind of sodium?How much?A blue film coating polyvinyl alcohol
Answer: If you are not allowed to have sodium in any form, don't use the product. There is no sodium that would harm a high blood pressure patient. Polyvinyl alcohol would not cause any problem for any alcoholic I am about to order a new package of the product which I use occasionally and puts me to sleep naturally with no after-effects when waking. That is all I can tell you.
Question: how do I go about returning an item
Answer: Never have don’t know.
Question: How many milligrams of 5htp
Answer: I have no idea since I no longer use the product. The product worked great for me. I just thought it was to expensive.
Question: is there an 800 number
Answer: 1 (206) 922-0880

Avinol PM - Best Natural Sleep Aid | Herbal Formula for Better Sleeping | Treatment for Jet Lag Insomnia Symptoms & Restlessness with Melatonin Lemon Balm Passion Flower 5-HTP L-Theanine Chamomile

Advanced Nutraceuticals, LLC

Based on 406 reviews Check latest price
  • FALL ASLEEP QUICKLY : These herbal tablets use our fast acting quick dissolve formula and waste no time easing you into deep sleep
  • STAY SLEEPING ALL NIGHT : Our extra strength formula calms the mind & alleviates restlessness while regulating your body’s natural sleep cycle
  • FEEL REFRESHED & ENERGIZED : Powerful ingredients like melatonin, 5-HTP & chamomile balance your body’s chemistry so you can get the most out of your night’s sleep
  • BETTER MOOD - MORE ENERGY - IMPROVED PERFORMANCE : Great for those with insomnia , chronic fatigue , jet lag , shift work , young children , stress , irregular schedules or other disruptions to the sleep cycle
  • SAFE & NON HABIT FORMING : an effective natural alternative to prescription & pharmaceutical drugs

User questions & answers

Question: How many milligrams of Melatonin are in each dose
Answer: Sorry, no idea--cgdck product s website.
Question: Is this organic
Answer: I don't think so
Question: What does synthetic mean
Answer: Manufactured by big drug companies.. NOT FOUND IN NATURE .. i recommend MELATONIN .. its easy on you
Question: Is there a money back guaranty for this product
Answer: I do not think so. There should be because it does not work &is really expensive. Mark it up, you have been ripped off.

Boiron Quietude Tablets Sleep Aid

AmazonUs/BOIB7

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Boiron quietude provides an over-the-counter option to relieve sleeplessness, restless sleep, and occasional awakening. This homeopathic medicine works without daytime grogginess. It can be taken up to two weeks to help restore a natural sleep pattern disturbed by Jet lag, night shifts, or an overactive mind replaying the day's events and reviewing Tomorrow's to-do list. The quick-dissolving tablets are convenient to take without water before bed or when awoken, and can be taken on an empty stomach. Quietude is free of sedatives that cause daytime drowsiness. It is non-habit forming so there's no risk of dependency. It does not interact with other medications, so it can be used during withdrawal from prescription sleep aids. It won't mask symptoms of a more serious condition. Recommended for everyone ages 12 and up, It's available over the counter in a box of 60 pleasant-tasting tablets. Also try Sedalia for daytime symptoms of stress. Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.

  • Restful sleep. Quietude relieves sleeplessness from worries and exhaustion; restless sleep associated with nervousness; and intermittent awakening
  • Peace OF MIND: free of sedatives that cause daytime drowsiness, non-habit forming, no risk of dependency, no known interaction with other medications or supplements
  • Safety assured: quietude tablets can be used during withdrawal from prescription sleep aids and won't mask symptoms of a more serious condition
  • More info: recommended for everyone ages 12 and up, quietude is available over the counter in a box of 60 pleasant-tasting tablets and this 120-count Twin pack
  • Additional options for relief: also try Sedalia for daytime symptoms of stress

User questions & answers

Question: Is this Gluten free
Answer: As far as I can tell, this product does not have gluten in it. The inactive ingredients are: croscarmellose sodium, lactose, magnesium stearate.
Question: Hi What are the expiration on these? I like to order a few soon, thanks
Answer: Matthew the date on my boxes of Quietude is :05/2023. By the way, these sub lingual (under the tongue) tablets really work.
Question: is there any taste with pill
Answer: It has a chalky taste, but dissolves quickly.
Question: Are these gluten free
Answer: I don't see any indication of gluten in the ingredients.

ZzzQuil, Nighttime Sleep Aid LiquiCaps, 25 mg Diphenhydramine HCl, No.1 Sleep-Aid Brand, Non-Habit Forming, Wake Refreshed, 72 LiquiCaps

ZzzQuil

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Everyone deserves a good night's sleep. When you're having trouble getting the rest you need, but don't want to take prescription sleeping pills, try ZzzQuil LiquiCaps. This non-habit-forming sleep-aid helps you get some shut-eye, so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day.

  • FALL ASLEEP FAST. ZzzQuil liquid capsules help you fall asleep in as little as 20 minutes
  • SLEEP SOUNDLY. Get the sound sleep you need so that you can take on tomorrow
  • WAKE REFRESHED. Wake refreshed. Ensure 7-8 hours of time to get a sufficient night sleep
  • WORLD'S #1 SLEEP AID BRAND. No other brand helps as many people get to sleep fast and wake refreshed as ZzzQuil
  • NON-HABIT FORMING. ZzzQuil LiquiCaps contain a non-habit-forming ingredient, Diphenhydramine HCI, that helps you get the sleep you need. Each dose (two LiquiCaps) contains 50mg

User questions & answers

Question: What’s the difference between new and old zzzquil
Answer: This is the only (and last) version of this stuff I will buy.
Question: What is the expiration date of this item
Answer: This is a great question, and we'd be happy to assist. Each individual box will have the production code and expiration date printed on the packaging. The dates may vary by packaging, so we recommend reaching out to the seller for more information. Please feel free to give us a call at (877) 881-5813. - The ZzzQuil Team
Question: Does this product contain any alcohol
Answer: No it does not contain alcohol.
Question: So is this just an overpriced benedryl? It’s literally the same ingredient
Answer: You are correct. I looked up the ingredient. I looked up Benadryl, and it literally says that Benadryl can be used for insomnia. So, yeah. Overpriced Benadryl.

Product features

Why ZzzQuil?

ZzzQuil helps you get a good night’s rest and provides relief of occasional sleeplessness. The ZzzQuil line of products helps you sleep soundly so you can wake up feeling refreshed. It also reduces the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, if you have difficulty falling asleep.

What is ZzzQuil?

ZzzQuil is a non-habit forming sleep aid that helps you get the sound sleep you need by providing relief of occasional sleeplessness. The active ingredient in ZzzQuil that helps you sleep is Diphenhydramine HCl, which is an antihistamine.

What is in ZzzQuil?

The active ingredient in ZzzQuil is Diphenhydramine HCl, an antihistamine that is a nighttime sleep-aid. Do not take ZzzQuil if you are taking any other product containing diphenhydramine, even one used on skin.

Treatment Options for Occasional Sleeplessness

Many OTC sleep medications contain Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride (like ZzzQuil), diphenhydramine citrate or doxylamine succinate. In addition to single active ingredient products intended for sleep, there are combination medications that contain a pain reliever and a sleep aid. See the info to the right for a better understanding of Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids.

Herbal and Natural Supplements

In addition to the products mentioned above, herbal supplements such as melatonin, chamomile and valerian are sometimes used to treat occasional sleeplessness.

Prescriptions

If a person continues to have trouble falling or staying asleep, he or she should consult a doctor. In some cases, short-term use of prescription sleep aids may be recommended. There are several FDA approved medications doctors may prescribe to help a person fall asleep easier and/or stay asleep longer, such as eszopiclone, zaleplon, and zolpidem.

Nested Naturals Luna #1 Natural Sleep Aid on Amazon - Herbal Supplement with Melatonin, Valerian Root, Chamomile - Non-Habit Forming Sleeping Pills for Adults - Relief from Stress & Anxiety

Nested Naturals

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price
  • NATURAL SLEEP SUPPLEMENT - LUNA is a gentle herbal sleep supplement made with safe, naturally sourced, scientifically-backed ingredients that are non-habit forming and will encourage a healthy and balanced sleep schedule.
  • DEEP, RESTFUL SLEEP EVERY NIGHT - Every so often, falling asleep and / staying asleep can be a challenge and on those mornings it’s difficult to wake up fresh and energized. LUNA contains 6mg of melatonin in each serving to help support a normal, better sleep pattern so you can wake up feeling refreshed. Give relief from stress & anxiety. Give you extra strength.
  • A BOOST OF L-THEANINE & GABA - L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea; GABA is a neurotransmitter produced by the body. Both of these ingredients promote better sleep habits, mood and relaxation.
  • HERBAL BLEND FOR A SLEEPY BEDTIME - LUNA sleep aide includes a blend of herbs that people have been using for centuries to relax and sleep better. Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Passionflower, and Hops are known for their calming and soothing properties. Valerian Root promotes a healthy sleep cycle.
  • LOVE LUNA, OR YOUR MONEY BACK - Hello, we are Nested Naturals. We are confident you will love us, but if you do not, you are backed by our Lifetime Guarantee. Call or email us for a full refund. There is no hitch!

User questions & answers

Question: Can someone confirm that this product does not contain Benzodiazepines or hypnotics such as zolpidem? Can I get it tested in a laboratory
Answer: Under your Amazon subscriptions you can cancel it . This product worked for me
Question: Where can I see all the ingredients
Answer: Thank you for your interest in Nature's Bounty! All of our Melatonin products, including our Melatonin 3 mg Quick Dissolve tablets, are sourced synthetically.
Question: Are any of the ingredients in this derived from synthetic ingredients or 100% natural plant or animal ingredients
Answer: I got my bottle in January 2015 and the expiration date printed on the bottle is October 2017 (2 years 9 months).
Question: WIll I be able to wake up if I need to get up early the next day, for example, after 4 to 6 hours of sleep
Answer: I don't think that is is normal to have a lot of white powder on the inside. I looked at my bottle and there was NO POWDER on the inside. They must be old...I'd send them back!

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