Health Management for Older Adults III - Sleep Patterns of Older Adults

< i > Sleep Patterns of Older Adults - Pharmacologic Approaches

Persons with sleep disorders may self-medicate themselves with nonprescription hypnotics or alcohol.

All over-the-counter sleeping pills rely on antihistamines to produce drowsiness which may last into the next day.

Antihistamines have anticholinergic properties which can produce confusion or urinary retention, particularly when used in large doses.
Alcohol is the most commonly used nonprescription hypnotic.
Rebound insomnia may occur from withdrawal.