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People often wonder: can you become addicted to sleeping pills? The short answer is that yes, it is possible. In fact, many don’t realize that it is a danger of taking these medications. They can unknowingly become addicted simply by not understanding the dangers. In addition, because these are prescribed by a doctor, people don’t often realize that they can be addictive. The long-term effects of sleeping pill addiction can harm your concentration and memory. It’s best to only use these medications as prescribed and only for a short time. Knowing the signs of a sleeping pill dependency might prevent you from having long-lasting problems from sleeping pill addiction.

Can You Become Addicted to Sleeping Pills? Short Answer: Yes

What are Sleeping Pills?

Sleeping pills are a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics. Doctors prescribe them for short-term use for people who are having issues with extreme insomnia. The most common brands of these are Ambien, Sonata, and Lunesta. Your doctor might prescribe these if you are having trouble falling or staying asleep. You might also get a prescription if you are suffering from nightmares frequently which are interrupting your rest. If you take them for longer than prescribed, you can become addicted to sleeping pills.

Long Term Effects of Sleeping Pills

Sedative-hypnotics should only be used in the way prescribed, otherwise you can become addicted to sleeping pills. If you take them for a longer time than you’re supposed to, you can develop mental issues. For example, you can experience problems with concentration and memory. In extreme cases, people can even experience hallucinations. If you quit taking sleeping pills after developing an addiction, you might suffer from drug withdrawal. This happens because your body has become dependent on the drug.

Can You Become Addicted to Sleeping Pills?

You absolutely can become addicted to sleeping pills. Many people think that because their doctor prescribes them, there’s no risk. However, doctors only prescribe them for short-term use. Abusing them for longer than suggested can lead to an addiction. The most obvious way to know if you are becoming addicted to sleeping pills is to check whether or not you’re able to sleep without their assistance. In addition, you might find that you need a higher dose to achieve the same results. Finally, if you crave the pills or need to see multiple doctors to get your prescription refilled often, you might have a problem.

How to Properly Use Sleeping Pills

If you do not want to become addicted to sleeping pills, make sure that you only use them as your doctor prescribes. This should be for short-term stints when insomnia or sleep issues are an acute problem. If you feel like you need a higher dose to achieve the same results, consult with a doctor. In addition, talk to your doctor if you’re having negative effects from the pills or experiencing things like concentration and memory loss. Finally, never mix sleeping pills with other drugs, and don’t take them with alcohol. These combinations can be very dangerous and result in health issues.

You can become addicted to sleeping pills, so if you’re taking them, it’s important to know what to watch out for. Even though your doctor prescribes them, it doesn’t mean that they can’t become addictive. You should only use them for short amounts of time. If you experience symptoms of addiction or find that you are unable to sleep without them, you should seek help. Seek out professional help and try to find a rehabilitation center near you. If you do not get help for a sleeping pill addiction, you could experience long-term negative effects on your body. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about how to take them properly, and always use sleeping pills with extreme caution.