Should I take medications to improve my sleep?

The medications currently on the market will only improve the quantity of your sleep, not the quality: only in rare instances will there be improvement in the quality of sleep  In fact, while several of the medications designed for sleep may put you to sleep, they will keep you out of the deeper stages of sleep, which actually reduces your overall sleep quality .

There are many medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, that can be taken to improve sleep. Since many sleep medications are addictive or can have other serious adverse effects, it is wise to make lifestyle changes and try self-care treatments, such as sleep hygiene techniques before considering medications. Sleep medications generally should not be taken for more than a few weeks.