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Last updated on 06/22/2024. Sleeping pills treat insomnia by making you feel drowsy and relaxed. Sleep aids, including natural ones like melatonin, can cause side effects. You may feel confused or sleepy during the day. Some people walk or eat in their sleep (parasomnia). Other nondrug therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be better at improving your sleep. Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) Care at Cleveland Clinic [Neurology Care for Adults](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/neurology-care) [Neurology Care for Children](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/pediatrics/services/neurology-care) [Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment/what-to-expect) Contents [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#overview)[Treatment Details](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#treatment-details)[Risks / Benefits](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#risks-benefits)[Recovery and Outlook](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#recovery-and-outlook)[When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#when-to-call-the-doctor)[Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#additional-common-questions) Contents [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#overview)[Treatment Details](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#treatment-details)[Risks / Benefits](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#risks-benefits)[Recovery and Outlook](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#recovery-and-outlook)[When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#when-to-call-the-doctor)[Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15308-sleeping-pills#additional-common-questions) ## Overview ### What are sleeping pills? As the name suggests, sleeping pills can help you get some [sleep](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/12148-sleep-basics). If you have a [sleep disorder](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11429-common-sleep-disorders) like [insomnia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12119-insomnia), you may take these medications to help you fall asleep. Sleeping medicines can also help you stay asleep if you’re prone to waking up in the middle of the night. Sleeping pills go by many names, including: Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) - Hypnotics. - [Sedatives](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24880-sedative). - Sleep aids. - Sleep medicines. - Tranquilizers. ### Who might need sleeping pills? An estimated 1 in 7 people in the U.S. have long-term insomnia. Sleep difficulties become more common as you age. Approximately 1 in 3 people age 65 and older take some type of sleep medicine. ### What are the types of sleeping pills? Sleeping pills are available over the counter (OTC), as natural supplements or by prescription. #### Over-the-counter sleeping pills Anyone age 18 and older can buy OTC sleep medications at the drugstore or other retail locations. You don’t need a healthcare provider to write you a prescription for an OTC medication. OTC sleep aids often contain an [antihistamine](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/21223-antihistamines). This drug treats allergies, but it can also make you drowsy. #### Natural sleeping pills Some people take natural remedies like [melatonin](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23411-melatonin) or [valerian](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18708-valerian-oral-dosage-forms) supplements to help them sleep. Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces that promotes sleep. Valerian is an herb that supposedly aids relaxation and sleep. Although OTC sleep aids and supplements are easily accessible, you should check with your healthcare provider before taking them. Drugs in over-the-counter sleep aids (including supplements) can interfere with other medications or make health conditions worse. #### Prescription sleeping pills Prescription sleeping pills are stronger than over-the-counter ones. You need a prescription from a healthcare provider to get these pills. Providers don’t typically recommend using prescription sleeping pills long term because they’re not a cure for insomnia and there’s a risk of dependence and addiction. They may help in some cases, but providers will usually only prescribe them for short-term relief. Advertisement Types of prescription sleeping pills include: - [Antidepressants](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-antidepressants-depression-medication). - [Barbiturates](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23271-barbiturates). - [Benzodiazepines (benzos)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24570-benzodiazepines-benzos). - Z-drugs, like zolpidem ([Ambien®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20871-zolpidem-tablets)) and eszopiclone ([Lunesta®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19753-eszopiclone-tablets)). ## Treatment Details ### How do sleeping pills work? Each type of sleeping pill works differently. Some sleep aids cause drowsiness, while others silence the area of your [brain](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22638-brain) that keeps you alert. Most OTC sleeping pills contain antihistamines. Antihistamines work by blocking histamines, which are substances in your body that cause alertness. Common ingredients in antihistamines include [diphenhydramine](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20746-diphenhydramine-suspension) and [doxylamine](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20799-doxylamine-solution). How natural sleep aids work depends on the type of supplement. Melatonin is a hormone that promotes sleep, due to its ability to influence when you fall asleep and wake up. Valerian has a natural calming effect on your nervous system and helps to promote a better night’s sleep. Prescription sleep medications work in different ways. Benzodiazepines, for instance, work by stimulating a chemical in your brain called [GABA](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22857-gamma-aminobutyric-acid-gaba), which leads to sedation, muscle relaxation and reduced anxiety. Z-drugs work by slowing the activity in your brain. Care at Cleveland Clinic [Neurology Care for Adults](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/neurology-care) [Neurology Care for Children](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/pediatrics/services/neurology-care) [Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment/what-to-expect) ## Risks / Benefits  **Image content:** This image is available to view online. View image online (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/-/scassets/images/org/health/articles/15308-sleeping-pills) Sleeping pills can cause a range of side effects, from constipation to muscle weakness. ### What are potential sleeping pills side effects? Approximately 8 out of 10 people experience a hangover effect the day after taking sleep medicine. They feel drowsy, have muddled thinking and experience [dizziness](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/6422-dizziness) or [balance problems](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21021-balance-problems). These daytime effects can negatively impact your ability to drive, work, go to school and complete daily tasks. This is why it’s important to use caution when taking a sleep medicine. Over-the-counter and prescription sleeping pills (and supplements) can cause these side effects: - [Constipation](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4059-constipation) or [diarrhea](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4108-diarrhea). - [Dry mouth](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10902-dry-mouth-xerostomia). - [Headaches](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9639-headaches). - Muscle weakness. - Digestive problems, including [gas](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7314-gas-and-gas-pain), [heartburn](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9617-heartburn-overview) and [nausea](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/nausea). - Can worsen snoring and [sleep apnea](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8718-sleep-apnea). ### What are the potential long-term side effects of sleeping pills? When you take sleeping medicines night after night, your body may start to depend on them. When you stop the medicine, your insomnia may come back worse than before. This effect is called rebound insomnia. If you’ve used sleep aids for a long time, talk to your healthcare provider about how to stop safely. It may take months to stop taking the pills. You also shouldn’t mix sleep aids with other sedatives or alcohol. There’s a possibility of overdosing. ### What are the potential risks or complications of prescription sleeping pills? Some prescription sleep medicines may bring on [parasomnia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12133-parasomnias--disruptive-sleep-disorders). This disruptive sleep disorder can cause dangerous behaviors while you’re still mostly asleep. People who take Z-drugs may [sleepwalk](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14292-sleepwalking) or eat, take medications, talk or even drive, all while unaware that they’re doing these things. You may appear to be awake, but your brain isn’t fully alert. Most people don’t remember doing these things after they wake up. Sedatives can also worsen snoring and sleep apnea, a potentially life-threatening condition. Advertisement #### Are sleeping pills addictive? Benzodiazepines can be addictive and lead to a [substance use disorder](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16652-drug-addiction-substance-use-disorder-sud). To lower this risk, healthcare providers only prescribe these sleeping pills for short-term use. You’re more likely to get a prescription for Z-drugs instead. ### Can you take sleeping pills while pregnant? Any medication you take while [pregnant](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9709-pregnancy-am-i-pregnant) or [breastfeeding](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/5182-breastfeeding) passes to the fetus or baby. Check with your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter sleeping pills or supplements. For extreme insomnia, a provider may prescribe a short-term sleep aid. ### Are sleeping pills safe for children? Some parents give over-the-counter antihistamine medications to children to help them sleep. These medicines aren’t approved for sleep purposes. There’s a risk of overdosing your child. Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric sleep specialist before giving OTC medications or supplements to your child. Currently, there aren’t any prescription sleep medicines available for children. Changing a child’s sleep behaviors is often the best way to improve sleep. ### What is the safest sleeping pill for the elderly? People age 65 and older should typically try nondrug treatments first because there may be safer ways to improve sleep. Sleeping pills have special risks for older adults. The drugs can stay in your body longer and cause side effects like [confusion](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/25206-confusion), [memory issues](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/11826-memory-loss) and balance problems that can increase your risk of falls and [hip fractures](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17101-hip-fracture). Advertisement If sleep issues are affecting your quality of life and nothing else has helped, talk to a healthcare provider. They may recommend trying an over-the-counter sleep aid like [Benadryl Allergy®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20479-diphenhydramine-chewable-tablet), [Advil PM®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20301-diphenhydramine-ibuprofen-capsules-or-tablets) or [Tylenol PM®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20060-acetaminophen-diphenhydramine-caplets-capsules-or-tablets). Take these at a low dose for a short time and keep in touch with your provider about any side effects. ### What are safe sleeping pills for heart patients? Sleep issues are a common issue for people with [heart disease](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24129-heart-disease). According to one study, as many as 44% of heart patients have trouble sleeping. There are many different reasons, from [shortness of breath](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16942-dyspnea) to difficulty getting comfortable after [heart surgery](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17525-heart-surgery). Another study showed that up to 50% of heart surgery patients had trouble sleeping up to six months after their procedure. Most healthcare providers recommend trying other methods to improve your sleep before sleeping pills. The long-term risks often outweigh the benefits of taking sleep aids. Your provider may recommend you change your sleeping environment or try [cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21208-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-cbt) first. If you’re still experiencing sleep issues, talk to your provider about sleeping pills before you start taking them. ### What are the best sleeping pills for cancer patients? Sleep issues can happen for many reasons, and people with [cancer](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12194-cancer) often have an increased risk for them. Like people with heart disease, your provider may recommend trying alternative methods to get a better night’s sleep before trying sleeping pills. Advertisement They may recommend keeping a sleep diary, in which you track your sleep by writing down the time and patterns of your sleep. You may try [changing your sleep environment](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sleep-hygiene) or talking to your provider about your current medications. They may also recommend cognitive behavioral therapy. If your sleep problems continue, your provider may prescribe a Z-drug. ## Recovery and Outlook ### How effective are sleeping pills? Studies show that sleeping pills aren’t that helpful in promoting a good night’s rest. Most people who take sleep aids fall asleep about eight to 20 minutes faster than those without medicine. On average, you might get an additional 35 minutes of shuteye. Generally, sleep aids should be for short-term use. They may be most helpful if a stressful life event, like a divorce or death in the family, is keeping you awake. ### How can I sleep better without sleeping pills? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective tool for improving sleep and curing insomnia. Behavioral changes often improve sleep without the need for medications. Talk to your healthcare provider about this option. You may also want to: - Avoid large meals and alcohol before bed. - [Cut back on caffeine](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15496-caffeine-how-to-hack-it-and-how-to-quit-it), including coffee, sodas and chocolate, throughout the day and especially before bedtime. - [Quit smoking](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/8699-quitting-smoking). - Relax with soothing music, a good book or [meditation](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17906-meditation). - [Shut off electronic devices](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/put-the-phone-away-3-reasons-why-looking-at-it-before-bed-is-a-bad-habit) at least 30 minutes before bedtime. - Stay physically active during the day. Try to get outside, if possible. - Stick to a sleep schedule (same bedtime and wake-up time) even on weekends. - Turn your bedroom into a dark, quiet and cool sanctuary. - Wake up at the same time every day, and get 30 to 40 minutes of unfiltered outdoor light exposure within 15 minutes of waking up to help [circadian rhythm](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/circadian-rhythm) regulation. ## When To Call the Doctor ### When should I contact my healthcare provider? You should contact your healthcare provider if you’re taking sleeping pills and experience: - Long-term (chronic) [fatigue](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21206-fatigue). - Confusion or memory issues. - Parasomnia behaviors. - Problems focusing or completing tasks like driving. - Severe [upset stomach.](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/7316-indigestion-dyspepsia) ## Additional Common Questions ### Can you overdose on sleeping pills? A sleeping pill overdose can occur if you take more than the recommended amount of medication or combine sleeping pills with alcohol or other medications. Most people who overdose will experience only mild side effects, like dizziness and nausea. But a sleeping pill overdose can be deadly. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (U.S.), there were about 12,500 drug overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines in 2021. **If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or struggling with thoughts of suicide, call or text 988** **to reach the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/suicide-hotline)**. This service provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in the United States experiencing emotional distress or a suicidal crisis. ### A note from Cleveland Clinic Staring at the clock or tossing and turning is no way to spend your nights. Still, you should talk to a healthcare provider before trying an over-the-counter sleep aid. Often, nondrug treatments and behavioral changes are all you need for improved sleep. But a provider may recommend a prescription sleeping pill in some cases. They can figure out what’s causing your insomnia and suggest the best plan to help you rest easier. [](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) [](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/)  ## Better health starts here Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more. [Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026)[Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up) [Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up)[Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026) ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 06/22/2024. Learn more about the [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/about) and our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy). ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. #### View Sources ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 06/22/2024. ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. - American Academy of Family Physicians. Insomnia *(https://familydoctor.org/condition/insomnia/)*. Last updated 11/2023. Accessed 6/22/2024. - American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Multiple pages reviewed *(http://sleepeducation.org/)*. Accessed 6/22/2024. - American Sleep Association. Multiple pages reviewed *(https://www.sleepassociation.org/)*. Accessed 6/22/2024. - Choosing Wisely. Multiple pages reviewed *(https://www.choosingwisely.org)*. Accessed 6/22/2024. - National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (U.S.). Sleep Disorders: What You Need to Know *(https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/sleep-disorders-what-you-need-to-know)*. Last updated 5/2024. Accessed 6/22/2024. - National Institute on Drug Abuse (U.S.). Drug Overdose Death Rates *(https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates)*. Last updated 5/14/2024. Accessed 6/22/2024. - Sleep Foundation. Side Effects of Sleep Medication *(https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-medications/side-effects)*. Last updated 11/8/2023. Accessed 6/22/2024. - U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Office on Women’s Health. Insomnia *(https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/insomnia)*. Last updated 2/22/2021. Accessed 6/22/2024. - U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Taking Z-drugs for Insomnia? Know the Risk *(https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/taking-z-drugs-insomnia-know-risks)*. Content current as of 3/6/2024. Accessed 6/22/2024. ### Care at Cleveland Clinic If you have a neurological condition, you want expert advice. At Cleveland Clinic, we’ll work to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.  [Neurology Care for Adults](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/neurology-care) [Neurology Care for Children](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/pediatrics/services/neurology-care) [Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment/what-to-expect) Advertisement Advertisement Ad Appointments [866\.588.2264](tel:8665882264) [Appointments & Locations](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/neurological/appointments) [Request an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment/what-to-expect) [Find a ProviderNeed a primary care doctor or a specialist? 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### What are potential sleeping pills side effects? Approximately 8 out of 10 people experience a hangover effect the day after taking sleep medicine. They feel drowsy, have muddled thinking and experience [dizziness](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/6422-dizziness) or [balance problems](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21021-balance-problems). These daytime effects can negatively impact your ability to drive, work, go to school and complete daily tasks. This is why it’s important to use caution when taking a sleep medicine. Over-the-counter and prescription sleeping pills (and supplements) can cause these side effects: - [Constipation](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4059-constipation) or [diarrhea](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4108-diarrhea). - [Dry mouth](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10902-dry-mouth-xerostomia). - [Headaches](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9639-headaches). - Muscle weakness. - Digestive problems, including [gas](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7314-gas-and-gas-pain), [heartburn](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9617-heartburn-overview) and [nausea](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/nausea). - Can worsen snoring and [sleep apnea](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8718-sleep-apnea). ### What are the potential long-term side effects of sleeping pills? When you take sleeping medicines night after night, your body may start to depend on them. When you stop the medicine, your insomnia may come back worse than before. This effect is called rebound insomnia. If you’ve used sleep aids for a long time, talk to your healthcare provider about how to stop safely. It may take months to stop taking the pills. You also shouldn’t mix sleep aids with other sedatives or alcohol. There’s a possibility of overdosing. ### What are the potential risks or complications of prescription sleeping pills? Some prescription sleep medicines may bring on [parasomnia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12133-parasomnias--disruptive-sleep-disorders). This disruptive sleep disorder can cause dangerous behaviors while you’re still mostly asleep. People who take Z-drugs may [sleepwalk](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14292-sleepwalking) or eat, take medications, talk or even drive, all while unaware that they’re doing these things. You may appear to be awake, but your brain isn’t fully alert. Most people don’t remember doing these things after they wake up. Sedatives can also worsen snoring and sleep apnea, a potentially life-threatening condition. #### Are sleeping pills addictive? Benzodiazepines can be addictive and lead to a [substance use disorder](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16652-drug-addiction-substance-use-disorder-sud). To lower this risk, healthcare providers only prescribe these sleeping pills for short-term use. You’re more likely to get a prescription for Z-drugs instead. ### Can you take sleeping pills while pregnant? Any medication you take while [pregnant](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9709-pregnancy-am-i-pregnant) or [breastfeeding](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/5182-breastfeeding) passes to the fetus or baby. Check with your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter sleeping pills or supplements. For extreme insomnia, a provider may prescribe a short-term sleep aid. ### Are sleeping pills safe for children? Some parents give over-the-counter antihistamine medications to children to help them sleep. These medicines aren’t approved for sleep purposes. There’s a risk of overdosing your child. Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric sleep specialist before giving OTC medications or supplements to your child. Currently, there aren’t any prescription sleep medicines available for children. Changing a child’s sleep behaviors is often the best way to improve sleep. ### What is the safest sleeping pill for the elderly? People age 65 and older should typically try nondrug treatments first because there may be safer ways to improve sleep. Sleeping pills have special risks for older adults. The drugs can stay in your body longer and cause side effects like [confusion](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/25206-confusion), [memory issues](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/11826-memory-loss) and balance problems that can increase your risk of falls and [hip fractures](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17101-hip-fracture). If sleep issues are affecting your quality of life and nothing else has helped, talk to a healthcare provider. They may recommend trying an over-the-counter sleep aid like [Benadryl Allergy®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20479-diphenhydramine-chewable-tablet), [Advil PM®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20301-diphenhydramine-ibuprofen-capsules-or-tablets) or [Tylenol PM®](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20060-acetaminophen-diphenhydramine-caplets-capsules-or-tablets). Take these at a low dose for a short time and keep in touch with your provider about any side effects. ### What are safe sleeping pills for heart patients? Sleep issues are a common issue for people with [heart disease](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24129-heart-disease). According to one study, as many as 44% of heart patients have trouble sleeping. There are many different reasons, from [shortness of breath](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16942-dyspnea) to difficulty getting comfortable after [heart surgery](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17525-heart-surgery). Another study showed that up to 50% of heart surgery patients had trouble sleeping up to six months after their procedure. Most healthcare providers recommend trying other methods to improve your sleep before sleeping pills. The long-term risks often outweigh the benefits of taking sleep aids. Your provider may recommend you change your sleeping environment or try [cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21208-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-cbt) first. If you’re still experiencing sleep issues, talk to your provider about sleeping pills before you start taking them. ### What are the best sleeping pills for cancer patients? Sleep issues can happen for many reasons, and people with [cancer](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12194-cancer) often have an increased risk for them. Like people with heart disease, your provider may recommend trying alternative methods to get a better night’s sleep before trying sleeping pills. They may recommend keeping a sleep diary, in which you track your sleep by writing down the time and patterns of your sleep. You may try [changing your sleep environment](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sleep-hygiene) or talking to your provider about your current medications. They may also recommend cognitive behavioral therapy. If your sleep problems continue, your provider may prescribe a Z-drug.