What are Sleep Supplements?

Sleep supplements, as the name suggests, are used by people to address their issues which refrain them from sleeping. Such issues might include insomnia, sleep walking etc. Moreover, such pills or supplements not only address sleeping concerns, but they can also be used to treat several other medical illnesses including anxiety and depression. If taken properly, they can be of real benefit to people suffering from restlessness caused by sleep deprivation but can prove to be fatal if not taken properly. Over the counter sleeping pills UK can be taken and can be prescribed by a general physician. 

History of Sleep Supplements

History of sleeping pills, also known as hypnotics, can be traced back to the mid-1800s. At that time, chloral hydrate was for the first time used as a sleeping supplement. As the time went on, this element was used widely as a natural sleeping aid. Afterwards it was replaced by benzodiazepines due to risk of addiction and overdose. At present, there are many safer options in the market.  

Over the Counter Sleeping Pills

The term “over the counter” means anything which is bought by ordinary retail purchase which does not require any prescription. There are some OTC sleeping drugs which can cause several problems ranging from dizziness to memory loss. 

According to a recent report, the ongoing situation of pandemic has forced many people to buy these sedative hypnotics online which are considered best sleeping pills UK and some strong sleeping pills which are termed as illegal drugs, most notably diazepam and alprazolam. It should be noted that buying such strong sleeping pills and drugs, mainly benzos, over the counter, is against the law in the UK.

Side Effects of Sleep Medications

Number of side effects have been reported to date by the people who use over the counter sleeping pills UK. These can be summed up as:

1. Lightheadedness or feeling dizzy.
2. Feeling nauseous.
3. Headache.
4. Brain damage (if used in excess).
5. Depression.
6. High blood pressure.

Advent of sleeping aids in UK

There are numerous sleeping drugs in Europe having both pros and cons. Melatonin is the main drug prescribed by general physicians in the UK widely due to its non-addictive attribute and is regarded among the best sleeping pills UK.  Quinazolinones are also taken by the majority of people but are rare in Europe. There are several drugs which are not allowed in the UK and if you’re carrying one along with you while entering this territory, you need to have original packaging and prescription copy. 

Ordering sleep supplements online

Number of sleep drugs in the UK are not provided by the NHS (National Health Service), which is a government department. But they are made available through online purchases. An example of such a drug is Alprazolam. This drug can either be obtained as OTC or can be purchased from illegal websites, online.

Best sleep supplements (2021)

As explained earlier, melatonin is the widely used drug for sleep regulation in the UK. It is mostly used by people working in shifts and the ones suffering from jet lag, meaning people having temporary sleep issues arising from travels across different time zones. Here is a list of the best melatonin supplements present in the market. 

Proper sleep + restore

Considered to be one of the best drugs for sleep overall. It suits people struggling to fall asleep. Each tablet contains standard melatonin and extended melatonin for falling asleep and staying asleep during the night respectively. These capsules are sugar-free and do not contain any artificial flavors. These should be taken approximately half an hour before bedtime.

Som Sleep Original

As opposed to the first one, this is a drinking supplement. It’s a non-carbonated drink which consists of the prime ingredient being melatonin along with vitamins and magnesium. This too is sugar-free and should be taken at least half an hour before bedtime. Main attribute of this drug is that if taken in excess amounts it doesn’t make a person addictive. 

Onnit Melatonin Spray

As the name suggests, this sleep medication is a spray as opposed to a tablet or drink. This is best suited for people who prefer small doses of the medication or who don’t prefer to take strong sleeping pills or drinks or chewing supplements. This spray comes in flavors. This drug can be used right before sleeping.

More Labs – Dream Well

This drug is best suited for people who face sleeping difficulties arising from anxiety. This too is a drinking supplement which again works well for people who dislike taking capsules. Again, the main ingredient in this drink is melatonin. Other ingredients include lemon and jujube. Taking even half of the bottle can bring improvements in your sleep pattern. This too should be taken at least half an hour before bedtime.

Hims – Sleep Gummy Vitamins

As the name suggests, these are chewy or gummy tablets containing melatonin as the key ingredient which helps in healthy sleeping. These chewable tablets are gluten free and come in different flavors. These should be taken at least 30 minutes before bedtime.

Nurish – Nature Made Melatonin

Manufactured by Nurish, this is best for such people who like taking soft gels. It is a mixture of melatonin and L-theanine which helps in relaxing and falling asleep. This product is only designed for adults, ranging from 18 years and up. Softgel should be taken before bedtime and contains no artificial flavors. 

KalaVita – Nite Nite

This supplement comes in gummies form which appeals to people due to pleasant taste. These gummies are made using natural fiber from fruit peels. Along with melatonin these also contain L-theanine from tea leaves and other extracts for better sleep. This supplement is best for vegans.

Conclusion

Not all over the counter sleeping pills UK act the same. Sleeping supplements should be taken occasionally as prescribed by doctors. It is very important to keep some points in mind while opting for any sleeping pill. Like time required for the pill to start its action and how long is it going to last, are there any risks associated with certain pill types etc. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor before taking such medications and to look for such supplements which contain melatonin or natural ingredients only.