As the name suggests, sleeping pills help you catch some sleep. People who have sleep disorders like insomnia may take these medications to help them fall asleep. Sleeping medicines can also help you stay asleep if you’re prone to waking up in the middle of the night.

What are other names for sleeping pills?

Sleeping medicines go by many names: Hypnotics. Sedatives. Sleep aids. Sleep medicine. Tranquilizers.

There are various types of sleeping medicines. Each works differently. Some sleep aids cause drowsiness, while others silence the area of the brain that keeps you alert.

Although these sleep aids 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.