Tips for using OTC sleep aids

Spending your nights tossing and turning? Over-the-counter sleep aids are not magic cures, but for the occasional sleepless night, the Mayo Clinic says they might be just the ticket.

Most OTC sleep aids contain antihistamines, and tolerance to the sedative effects of antihistamines can develop quickly. And know that the next day, you might feel groggy. But if needed, read the following list of OTC drugs and pick the one that might work for you. For some people, just a half a caplet of an OTC sleep aid is all they need for a good night's sleep.

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Unisom sleep) and doxylamine (Unisom SleepTabs) are sedating antihistamines. Side effects: daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness and memory problems.

• Melatonin is a hormone that controls your natural sleep-wake cycle. Side effects: daytime sleepiness, dizziness and headaches. Less common side effects: abdominal discomfort, mild anxiety, irritability, confusion and short-lasting feelings of depression.

• Valerian is a herb produced from the roots of the flowering valerian plant. Valerian might reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and promote better sleep overall. Side effects: headache, abdominal discomfort, excitability or uneasiness and heart disturbances.

Before taking an OTC sleep aid:

1. Check with your doctor to be sure the sleep aid won't interact with your medications or any underlying conditions you might have. The doctor can also suggest a dosage protocol.

2. Avoid diphenhydramine and doxylamine if you have closed-angle glaucoma, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, severe liver disease, urinary retention, or are pregnant or nursing.

3. Do not take an OTC sleep aid for longer than two weeks.

4. Do not drive until the sleep aid's effects have worn off.

5. Never mix alcohol and sleep aids.