Serious Side Effects Of Sleeping Pills: Risks, Complications & Safer Alternatives

Hidden hazards in nighttime remedies can backfire; try healthier sleep routines.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 18, 2025

Hidden hazards in nighttime remedies can backfire; try healthier sleep routines.

Millions of people resort to sleeping pills for quick relief from insomnia, jet lag, or temporary sleep problems. While these medications may provide short-term benefits, their use is also associated with a wide range of unwanted side effects—some minor and others potentially life-threatening. Awareness about these risks is crucial for anyone considering or currently taking sleep aids. This article provides in-depth insight into the serious side effects, dangers, and alternatives to conventional sleeping pills.

Understanding Sleeping Pills: Types and Uses

“Sleeping pills” is an umbrella term that covers both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, each with distinct chemical profiles and effects:

Benzodiazepines (e.g., temazepam, diazepam) – Traditionally used but now less favored due to high risk of dependence and cognitive impairment.
Non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics (e.g., zolpidem, eszopiclone, zaleplon) – Also known as “Z-drugs”, favored for short-term treatment of insomnia.
Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, doxylamine) – Commonly found in OTC sleep aids.
Melatonin agonists and orexin antagonists – Newer prescription medications with specific actions on the sleep-wake cycle.

Common Short-Term Side Effects

While some side effects are mild and transient, others can disrupt daytime functioning and wellbeing:

Morning grogginess (“hangover effect”) – Drowsiness, slowed reflexes, reduced alertness, and a “fuzzy” feeling the next day.
Headache
Dry mouth or throat
Constipation or diarrhea
Dizziness, impaired balance
Uncoordinated movements
Weird dreams or nightmares
Muscle weakness
Blurred vision
Confusion or difficulty concentrating
Change in taste or appetite

Daytime drowsiness is among the most reported side effects, especially from medications with a long half-life. This can increase accident risks and reduce productivity.

Serious and Dangerous Complications

While most people associate sleeping pills with mild side effects, there is growing evidence of potentially dangerous and even fatal reactions, especially in certain groups or with prolonged use.

Complex Sleep Behaviors (Parasomnias)

Engaging in activities like sleepwalking, sleep eating, sleep driving, making phone calls, or even having sex without conscious awareness.
These behaviors are more common with “Z-drugs” and may lead to injuries, property damage, or legal consequences.
Often occur unpredictably, sometimes even in people with previous tolerance of the medication.

Allergic Reactions

Symptoms: Rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and severe nausea. These require immediate medical attention.

Overdose and Fatal Events

Intentional or accidental overdose can result in respiratory depression, coma, and death, particularly when combined with other depressants such as alcohol or opioids.
Young people and those with substance use histories are at greater risk for overdose.

Respiratory Depression

Sleeping pills can suppress breathing, posing serious dangers to those with chronic lung conditions such as asthma, emphysema, or sleep apnea.
This risk is even higher when sedatives are mixed with alcohol or narcotics.

Risk of Accidental Falls and Injuries

Impaired balance, slower reaction times, and muscle weakness can cause falls—especially hazardous for elderly people.
Consequent injuries may involve broken bones, head trauma, or hospitalizations.

Amnesia and Memory Loss

Some drugs (notably certain “Z-drugs” and benzodiazepines) have been linked to anterograde amnesia—inability to form new memories after taking the substance. This can be disturbing and dangerous, especially when driving or handling machinery.

Long-Term Side Effects And Health Risks

While sleeping pills are generally designed for short-term use (a few days to weeks), many people unwittingly find themselves on them for months or years. Chronic use increases the risk of serious and sometimes irreversible side effects:

Dependence and addiction: Needing higher doses for the same effect, developing cravings, and being unable to sleep without medication.
Tolerance: The body becomes less sensitive to the drug, necessitating dose escalation and risk of overdose.
Withdrawal and rebound insomnia: Abruptly stopping can worsen sleep difficulties and cause anxiety, tremors, sweating, and palpitations.
Decreased cognitive function: Chronic use linked to poor memory, slower processing, and in extreme cases, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in the elderly.
Increased risk of depression and mood changes.
Sexual dysfunction and decreased libido.
Potential risk of certain cancers: Some older studies have suggested an association, though more research is needed.

Table: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Side Effects of Sleeping Pills

Short-Term Side Effects	Long-Term Side Effects
Morning drowsiness Dizziness Headache Dry mouth Unusual dreams Constipation/diarrhea	Dependence and withdrawal Tolerance Memory problems Dementia* Depression Falls and fractures Sexual dysfunction

*Higher risk in elderly, especially with benzodiazepines.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Certain population groups are especially vulnerable to serious side effects:

Older adults – Slowed metabolism leads to higher, prolonged levels of drugs, raising risks of falls, confusion, and cognitive decline.
People with chronic lung, liver, or kidney disease
Individuals with a history of substance abuse or mental health disorders
Pregnant or breastfeeding women (potential risks to fetus/infant)

Dependence, Tolerance, and Withdrawal

Long-term sleeping pill users may face physical or psychological dependence. The process often follows this pattern:

Start with prescribed low dose for acute insomnia.
Body builds tolerance; sleep becomes difficult without medication.
Increase dose for desired effects, risking side effects, overdose, or dangerous behaviors.
Attempting to quit leads to withdrawal symptoms: anxiety, shaking, increased heart rate, sweating, worsened insomnia, and sometimes seizures (with abrupt discontinuation of certain drugs).

Medically supervised tapering (gradual dose reduction), combined with cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, is recommended for those wishing to discontinue these medications.

Special Warnings: Overdose and Mixing with Other Substances

Overdose risk increases when sleeping pills are combined with alcohol, painkillers (especially opioids), antidepressants, or other sedatives.
Symptoms include slowed or labored breathing, loss of consciousness, coma, and death.
Never exceed the prescribed dose or combine with other central nervous system depressants unless directed by a physician.

Signs You Should Contact a Doctor Immediately

Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Rash, hives, or facial swelling
Pounding or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain, fainting
Unusual behaviors while asleep (e.g., driving, cooking, talking)
Dependence or increasing dose without medical supervision

Safer Alternatives to Sleeping Pills

Treating underlying causes of insomnia and adopting healthier sleep habits often prove safer and more effective than medication. Alternatives include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): Proven first-line therapy addressing thought patterns and behaviors that disrupt sleep.
Improving sleep hygiene:
- Keep a consistent bedtime and wake-up schedule.
- Limit screen time and caffeine before bed.
- Create a dark, quiet, and comfortable sleep environment.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Meditation, guided imagery, or breathing exercises.
Exercise during the day: Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality, but avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime.
Consulting a sleep specialist: Persistent insomnia may indicate a medical disorder requiring expert evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are sleeping pills safe for long-term use?

A: Sleeping pills are generally intended for short-term use (a few weeks or less). Long-term use increases the risk of dependence, memory issues, and other health problems. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

Q: Can sleeping pills cause memory loss?

A: Yes, especially benzodiazepines and some “Z-drugs” can cause amnesia or difficulties forming new memories (anterograde amnesia), particularly with long-term use or high doses.

Q: What should I do if I want to stop taking sleeping pills?

A: Do not stop abruptly, as this may worsen insomnia and cause withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor about a gradual taper, and consider cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.

Q: What are parasomnias and how common are they with sleeping pills?

A: Parasomnias are abnormal behaviors (like sleepwalking, sleep-eating, or sleep-driving) performed while asleep and unaware. While rare, they are more likely with certain sedative-hypnotics; report any unusual sleep activity to your health professional immediately.

Q: Are over-the-counter sleep aids safer than prescription sleeping pills?

A: OTC aids (like antihistamines) may also have side effects, including drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, and risk of dependence in the elderly. They are not considered safer for long-term use and should only be used occasionally or under supervision.

Key Takeaways

Many sleeping pills can cause serious side effects—both short-term and long-term—including morning grogginess, memory loss, addiction, parasomnias, and life-threatening reactions in rare instances.
Risks are higher with chronic use, increased dosage, underlying medical conditions, and mixing with other sedatives or alcohol.
If you believe you are experiencing any adverse effect, or if you wish to discontinue sleeping pills, consult your healthcare provider for safe alternatives and a medically supervised taper.
In most cases, sleep problems can be managed through lifestyle adjustments, therapy, and treating underlying causes—without the need for long-term medication.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete