Medicines and sleep
The ones that can disturb the night.
Some medicines can act on sleep or alertness. Talking it over with a professional helps make sense of it.
Possible effects
- Several families of medicines can influence sleep or alertness, one way or the other.
- That's the case for example with some treatments for mood or anxiety. Effects vary from person to person.
The right reflex
- If you think a medicine is disturbing your sleep, talk to your doctor or pharmacist rather than stopping on your own.
- Sleep medicines themselves are only taken on prescription, and for a limited time.
Frequently asked questions
Can some medicines disturb sleep?
Yes, several classes of medicine can influence sleep or alertness, one way or the other. Effects vary from one person to another.
What should you do if a medicine disturbs your sleep?
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist rather than stopping on your own. Only they can adjust a treatment safely.
Can you take medicine to sleep?
Sleep medicines should only be taken on prescription, and for a limited time. Never start or stop a treatment without a professional's advice.