🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 40 (from laksa170)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa040.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep-aids/art-20047860\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep-aids/art-20047860\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860","crawl_time":1775017153,"first_indexed_time":1507682453,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,mayoclinic!www,\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860 s443","src_root_hash":"1608882045018104440","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Sleep aids: Understand options sold without a prescription - Mayo Clinic","meta_descriptions":["Get the facts on common sleep aids sold without a prescription. Learn about side effects and precautions to take."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Sleep aids: Not a magic cure\nMost sleep aids available without a prescription contain antihistamines. Tolerance to the effects of antihistamines can develop quickly. The longer you take them, the less likely they are to make you sleepy.\nIn addition, these medicines can leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect.\nIf you take other medicines, sleep aids may affect how those medicines work. Also, much is still unknown about the safety and effectiveness of sleep aids available without a prescription.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860#main-content)\n\n[![Mayo Clinic Home Page](https:\/\/assets.mayoclinic.org\/content\/dam\/mayoclinic\/images\/logos\/mayo-clinic-logo.svg)](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/)\n\n[![Mayo Clinic Home Page](https:\/\/assets.mayoclinic.org\/content\/dam\/mayoclinic\/images\/logos\/mayo-clinic-logo.svg)](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/)\n\n- [Request appointment](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/appointments)\n- [Log in](https:\/\/onlineservices.mayoclinic.org\/content\/staticpatient\/showpage\/patientonline)\n- Search\n- Menu\n  \n  [Request appointment](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/appointments)\n  \n  [Donate](https:\/\/give.mayoclinic.org\/give\/609586\/#!\/donation\/checkout)\n  \n  [Diseases & conditions](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions)\n  \n  [Find a doctor](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/appointments\/find-a-doctor)\n  \n  - 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Type 3 or more letters to display suggested search options.\n\nWhen results are available, use up and down arrow keys to navigate. Press space key to fill the input with the suggestion or enter key to search with the suggestion.Search by keyword or phrase\n\nSearch\n\n[Home](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/)\n\n1. [Home](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/)\n2. [Healthy Lifestyle](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle)\n3. [Adult health](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/basics\/staying-healthy\/hlv-20049421)\n4. Sleep aids: Understand options sold without a prescription\n\n# Sleep aids: Understand options sold without a prescription\nTrouble sleeping? Sleep aids you can buy without a prescription might help temporarily. But lifestyle changes are usually the best approach for chronic insomnia.\n\n[By Mayo Clinic Staff](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/about-this-site\/meet-our-medical-editors)\n\nJan. 21, 2026\n\nYou've followed the usual tips for getting enough sleep. You have a regular sleep schedule, avoid caffeine and daytime naps, and exercise regularly. You also avoid lighted screens before bed and have tried to reduce your stress. Still, it's been weeks since you've had a good night's sleep. Is it time for a sleep aid you can get without a prescription? Here's what you need to know if you're considering medicine to help you sleep.\n\n## Sleep aids: Not a magic cure\nMost sleep aids available without a prescription contain antihistamines. Tolerance to the effects of antihistamines can develop quickly. The longer you take them, the less likely they are to make you sleepy.\n\nIn addition, these medicines can leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect.\n\nIf you take other medicines, sleep aids may affect how those medicines work. Also, much is still unknown about the safety and effectiveness of sleep aids available without a prescription.\n\n## Sleep aids: The options\nSleep aids available without a prescription are widely available. Common choices and the potential side effects include:\n\n- **Diphenhydramine (Benadryl).** Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can make you sleepy. Side effects might include daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation and urinary retention.\n- **Doxylamine (Unisom).** Doxylamine is also a sedating antihistamine. Side effects are similar to those of diphenhydramine and may include daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation and urinary retention.\n- **Melatonin.** The hormone melatonin helps control your natural sleep-wake cycle. Some research suggests that melatonin supplements might be helpful in treating jet lag or reducing the time it takes to fall asleep — although the effect is typically mild. Side effects can include headaches, nausea and daytime sleepiness.\n- **Valerian.** Supplements made from this plant are sometimes taken as sleep aids. Although a few studies show some therapeutic benefit, other studies haven't found the same benefits. Side effects appear to be mild and may include headache and weakness.\n\nGeneric versions with the same active ingredients as brand-name sleep aids are commonly available. Generics have the same risks and benefits as their brand-name counterparts. They are often available at a more reasonable cost.\n\n## Important precautions\nWhen using sleep aids you can buy without a prescription, follow these steps:\n\n- **Start with your healthcare team.** Ask your healthcare professional if the sleep aid might interact with other medicines or underlying conditions. Also ask what dosage to take.\n- **Keep precautions in mind.** Diphenhydramine and doxylamine aren't recommended for people who have certain health conditions. These include closed-angle glaucoma, peptic ulcer and urinary retention. In addition, sleep aids pose risks for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and they might pose risks for people over age 65, including an increased risk of dementia.\n- **Take it one day at a time.** Sleep aids you can get without a prescription might be a temporary solution for sleep problems. However, they're not intended for long-term use.\n- **Avoid alcohol.** Never mix alcohol and sleep aids. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of the medicine.\n- **Beware of side effects.** Don't drive or attempt other activities that require alertness while taking sleep aids.\n\nEveryone benefits from a good night's sleep. If you continue to have trouble sleeping, talk to your healthcare team. In addition to lifestyle changes, behavioral therapy may be recommended. It can help you build better sleep habits and make your bedroom more comfortable for sleeping. In some cases, short-term use of prescription sleep aids might be recommended as well.\n\nShow references\n\n1. Winkelman JW. Overview of the treatment of insomnia in adults. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/search. Accessed Sept 9, 2025.\n2. Morgenthaler TI, et al., eds. Sleep medications. In: Mayo Clinic Guide to Better Sleep. Mayo Clinic Press; 2025.\n3. Neubauer DN. Pharmacotherapy for insomnia in adults. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/search. Accessed Sept. 8, 2025.\n4. Kryger MH, et al., eds. Pharmacologic treatment I: Therapeutic approaches and implementation. In: Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2022. https:\/\/www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025.\n5. Rochon PA. Drug prescribing for older adults. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/search. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025.\n6. Valerian. NatMed. https:\/\/naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025.\n7. Ferri FF. Insomnia. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2026. Elsevier; 2026. https:\/\/www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025.\n8. Melatonin. NatMed. https:\/\/naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025.\n9. Flaxer JM, et al. Evidenced-based review and evaluation of clinical significance: Nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatment of insomnia in the elderly. American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. 2021; doi:10.1016\/j.jagp.2020.10.011.\n\n[Print](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860?p=1)\n\n## Related content\n- [Antihistamines for insomnia](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/expert-answers\/sleep-aids\/faq-20058393)\n- [Can psoriasis make it hard to sleep?](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/psoriasis\/expert-answers\/can-psoriasis-make-it-hard-to-sleep\/faq-20479897)\n- [Hidradenitis suppurativa and sleep: How to get more zzz's](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/hidradenitis-suppurativa\/in-depth\/hidradenitis-suppurativa-and-sleep-how-to-get-more-zzzs\/art-20475494)\n- [I have atopic dermatitis. How can I sleep better?](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/atopic-dermatitis-eczema\/expert-answers\/i-have-atopic-dermatitis-how-can-i-sleep-better\/faq-20515225)\n- [Lack of sleep: Can it make you sick?](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/insomnia\/expert-answers\/lack-of-sleep\/faq-20057757)\n- [Melatonin side effects](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/expert-answers\/melatonin-side-effects\/faq-20057874)\n\n- [Napping: Do's and don'ts for healthy adults](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/napping\/art-20048319)\n- [Prescription sleeping pills: What's right for you?](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/insomnia\/in-depth\/sleeping-pills\/art-20043959)\n- [Sleep and psoriatic arthritis](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/psoriatic-arthritis\/expert-answers\/sleep-and-psoriatic-arthritis\/faq-20272593)\n- [Sleep guidelines](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/expert-answers\/how-many-hours-of-sleep-are-enough\/faq-20057898)\n- [Sleep tips: 6 steps to better sleep](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep\/art-20048379)\n- [Sleeping positions that reduce back pain](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/back-pain\/in-depth\/sleeping-positions\/art-20546852)\n\nShow 6 more\n***\n\n## Products & services\n- [A Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Better Sleep](https:\/\/order.store.mayoclinic.com\/flex\/mmv\/sleep01\/?altkey=SLPFORG&utm_source=MC-DotOrg-PS&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=Sleep-Book&utm_content=SLP)\n- [Podcast: How to sleep better](https:\/\/mcpress.mayoclinic.org\/living-well\/how-to-sleep-better\/)\n***\n\n## From Mayo Clinic to your inbox\nSign up for free and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips, current health topics, and expertise on managing health. 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All rights reserved.\n\nLanguage:\n\nEnglish\n\n- [English](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860)\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/es\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860)\n- [العربية](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/ar\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860)\n- [简体中文](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/zh-hans\/healthy-lifestyle\/adult-health\/in-depth\/sleep-aids\/art-20047860)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Sleep aids: Not a magic cure\n\nMost sleep aids available without a prescription contain antihistamines. Tolerance to the effects of antihistamines can develop quickly. The longer you take them, the less likely they are to make you sleepy.\n\nIn addition, these medicines can leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect.\n\nIf you take other medicines, sleep aids may affect how those medicines work. Also, much is still unknown about the safety and effectiveness of sleep aids available without a prescription.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Sleep aids: Understand options sold without a prescription - Mayo Clinic
Meta Description	Get the facts on common sleep aids sold without a prescription. Learn about side effects and precautions to take.
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Boilerpipe Text	Sleep aids: Not a magic cure Most sleep aids available without a prescription contain antihistamines. Tolerance to the effects of antihistamines can develop quickly. The longer you take them, the less likely they are to make you sleepy. In addition, these medicines can leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect. If you take other medicines, sleep aids may affect how those medicines work. Also, much is still unknown about the safety and effectiveness of sleep aids available without a prescription.
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Type 3 or more letters to display suggested search options. When results are available, use up and down arrow keys to navigate. Press space key to fill the input with the suggestion or enter key to search with the suggestion.Search by keyword or phrase Search [Home](https://www.mayoclinic.org/) 1. [Home](https://www.mayoclinic.org/) 2. [Healthy Lifestyle](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle) 3. [Adult health](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/basics/staying-healthy/hlv-20049421) 4. Sleep aids: Understand options sold without a prescription # Sleep aids: Understand options sold without a prescription Trouble sleeping? Sleep aids you can buy without a prescription might help temporarily. But lifestyle changes are usually the best approach for chronic insomnia. [By Mayo Clinic Staff](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/meet-our-medical-editors) Jan. 21, 2026 You've followed the usual tips for getting enough sleep. You have a regular sleep schedule, avoid caffeine and daytime naps, and exercise regularly. You also avoid lighted screens before bed and have tried to reduce your stress. Still, it's been weeks since you've had a good night's sleep. Is it time for a sleep aid you can get without a prescription? Here's what you need to know if you're considering medicine to help you sleep. ## Sleep aids: Not a magic cure Most sleep aids available without a prescription contain antihistamines. Tolerance to the effects of antihistamines can develop quickly. The longer you take them, the less likely they are to make you sleepy. In addition, these medicines can leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect. If you take other medicines, sleep aids may affect how those medicines work. Also, much is still unknown about the safety and effectiveness of sleep aids available without a prescription. ## Sleep aids: The options Sleep aids available without a prescription are widely available. Common choices and the potential side effects include: - Diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can make you sleepy. Side effects might include daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation and urinary retention. - Doxylamine (Unisom). Doxylamine is also a sedating antihistamine. Side effects are similar to those of diphenhydramine and may include daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation and urinary retention. - Melatonin. The hormone melatonin helps control your natural sleep-wake cycle. Some research suggests that melatonin supplements might be helpful in treating jet lag or reducing the time it takes to fall asleep — although the effect is typically mild. Side effects can include headaches, nausea and daytime sleepiness. - Valerian. Supplements made from this plant are sometimes taken as sleep aids. Although a few studies show some therapeutic benefit, other studies haven't found the same benefits. Side effects appear to be mild and may include headache and weakness. Generic versions with the same active ingredients as brand-name sleep aids are commonly available. Generics have the same risks and benefits as their brand-name counterparts. They are often available at a more reasonable cost. ## Important precautions When using sleep aids you can buy without a prescription, follow these steps: - Start with your healthcare team. Ask your healthcare professional if the sleep aid might interact with other medicines or underlying conditions. Also ask what dosage to take. - Keep precautions in mind. Diphenhydramine and doxylamine aren't recommended for people who have certain health conditions. These include closed-angle glaucoma, peptic ulcer and urinary retention. In addition, sleep aids pose risks for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and they might pose risks for people over age 65, including an increased risk of dementia. - Take it one day at a time. Sleep aids you can get without a prescription might be a temporary solution for sleep problems. However, they're not intended for long-term use. - Avoid alcohol. Never mix alcohol and sleep aids. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of the medicine. - Beware of side effects. Don't drive or attempt other activities that require alertness while taking sleep aids. Everyone benefits from a good night's sleep. If you continue to have trouble sleeping, talk to your healthcare team. In addition to lifestyle changes, behavioral therapy may be recommended. It can help you build better sleep habits and make your bedroom more comfortable for sleeping. In some cases, short-term use of prescription sleep aids might be recommended as well. Show references 1. Winkelman JW. Overview of the treatment of insomnia in adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept 9, 2025. 2. Morgenthaler TI, et al., eds. Sleep medications. In: Mayo Clinic Guide to Better Sleep. Mayo Clinic Press; 2025. 3. Neubauer DN. Pharmacotherapy for insomnia in adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 8, 2025. 4. Kryger MH, et al., eds. Pharmacologic treatment I: Therapeutic approaches and implementation. In: Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025. 5. Rochon PA. Drug prescribing for older adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025. 6. Valerian. NatMed. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025. 7. Ferri FF. Insomnia. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2026. Elsevier; 2026. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025. 8. Melatonin. NatMed. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Sept. 10, 2025. 9. Flaxer JM, et al. Evidenced-based review and evaluation of clinical significance: Nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatment of insomnia in the elderly. American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. 2021; doi:10.1016/j.jagp.2020.10.011. [Print](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep-aids/art-20047860?p=1) ## Related content - [Antihistamines for insomnia](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/sleep-aids/faq-20058393) - [Can psoriasis make it hard to sleep?](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/expert-answers/can-psoriasis-make-it-hard-to-sleep/faq-20479897) - [Hidradenitis suppurativa and sleep: How to get more zzz's](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hidradenitis-suppurativa/in-depth/hidradenitis-suppurativa-and-sleep-how-to-get-more-zzzs/art-20475494) - [I have atopic dermatitis. How can I sleep better?](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-eczema/expert-answers/i-have-atopic-dermatitis-how-can-i-sleep-better/faq-20515225) - [Lack of sleep: Can it make you sick?](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/expert-answers/lack-of-sleep/faq-20057757) - [Melatonin side effects](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/melatonin-side-effects/faq-20057874) - [Napping: Do's and don'ts for healthy adults](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/napping/art-20048319) - [Prescription sleeping pills: What's right for you?](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/in-depth/sleeping-pills/art-20043959) - [Sleep and psoriatic arthritis](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/expert-answers/sleep-and-psoriatic-arthritis/faq-20272593) - [Sleep guidelines](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/how-many-hours-of-sleep-are-enough/faq-20057898) - [Sleep tips: 6 steps to better sleep](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep/art-20048379) - [Sleeping positions that reduce back pain](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/in-depth/sleeping-positions/art-20546852) Show 6 more * ## Products & services - [A Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Better Sleep](https://order.store.mayoclinic.com/flex/mmv/sleep01/?altkey=SLPFORG&utm_source=MC-DotOrg-PS&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=Sleep-Book&utm_content=SLP) - [Podcast: How to sleep better](https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/how-to-sleep-better/) * ## From Mayo Clinic to your inbox Sign up for free and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips, current health topics, and expertise on managing health. 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Readable Markdown	Sleep aids: Not a magic cure Most sleep aids available without a prescription contain antihistamines. Tolerance to the effects of antihistamines can develop quickly. The longer you take them, the less likely they are to make you sleepy. In addition, these medicines can leave you feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect. If you take other medicines, sleep aids may affect how those medicines work. Also, much is still unknown about the safety and effectiveness of sleep aids available without a prescription.
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