Don’t worry, we’re not going to bore you with a bunch of technical details about sleep medications or toss and turn in cliches about learning the A to Zzzzzzzzs of sleep. What we have here is a little fact vs. fiction to help debunk some of the myths out there that keep plenty of tired people like you from getting the sleep they (and you) dream of. 

Myth 1: Take Sleep Meds at Night, Feel Off All Day

Ah, the dreaded morning after! No one wants to walk through their day like a zombie after taking sleep medication. But guess what? You don’t have to. You can get good sleep using over-the-counter (OTC) sleep medication AND feel refreshed in the morning. The key is taking the right dose at the right time. 

While it’s true that some sleep medications can have lingering effects, most over-the-counter options use an antihistamine (diphenhydramine or doxylamine) to help you drift off to dreamworld without a hitch and wake up as sunny and clear as a blue sky.

 If you’re new to sleep meds, start with the lowest dosage available and be sure to follow all directions as to timing and whether to take them with water or food. And keep in mind, everyone responds differently, so your experience may not be the same as your sleep partner’s.

Myth 2: Once You Start Sleep Meds, You Just Can’t Stop

Naysayers might warn that even safe sleep aids can become sleep “crutches,” thinking a crutch is something you rely on every night for sleep. But, hey, when you break your leg are you on crutches forever? No, and the same is true with sleep meds. The key, always, is to use as directed. OTC sleep medications like Sleep-eze are designed to be used for occasional sleeplessness, which means you use them for a few nights to restart your sleep rhythm. Plus, they represent only one handy hammer in your sleep toolbox. 

Anytime you’re having sleep problems, the best solution is to be intentional about your pre-sleep and sleep routine and change any habits that may be keeping you awake. Goodbye, sleeping with no curtains on the windows. Say goodnight early to your phone or any digital screen. There are a bunch of habits you might be able to change to help ensure better sleep without relying on meds for long.

Addiction is another concern people have and, for people who have or are recovering from problems with alcohol, drugs or other substances, talking to your doctor first is important. Technically (oh no, we said we wouldn’t get technical!), most over-the-counter sleep aids contain an antihistamine to help you sleep. While you can build up a tolerance to an antihistamine, this ingredient is not habit-forming when used as directed. 

OTC sleep medications like Sleep-eze are designed for occasional sleeplessness. Think of them as your sleep buddy, not a lifelong mate. They’re there when you need them, not an every night thing. Slide into sleep with our Sleep-eze® eze-liquid™ or Sleep-eze® Extra Strength GelCaps.

Myth 3: Sleep Meds Are Only for the Weak

Feel like you should be tough enough to tackle sleeplessness on your own or you should only use sleep meds as a last resort? You’re not alone. However, poor sleep makes everything more difficult, impairing your focus, reaction time and learning and recall ability, as well as affecting your emotions and even your relationships. Whether you choose to take sleep medication or sleep supplements to help you find your sleep groove again, you’re actually prioritizing your overall health. And putting your health first is about as strong a move as you can make!

Remember, OTC sleep medications and supplements are intended for occasional use only. There’s no shame in using a little help to get you back on track when your sleep seems out of whack. Think of it more like reclaiming your night—a power move—or like putting on a raincoat before heading into a storm. 

It's perfectly okay to hesitate to take sleep meds, even when you know they’re safe and effective when used properly. The fact that you want to focus on getting better sleep means you’re taking steps to improve the quality of your life. Getting better sleep really is a dream because it makes life a bit easier. You don’t wake up in the morning feeling like you’re already behind—and in this fast-paced world, that’s a clear advantage. 

Whatever you decide, we stand behind you! Making informed decisions for yourself is always the right way to go.