Can an 18-year-old take sleeping pills?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 18 years old, and I want to know what amount of sleeping pills I can have without any harmful effects. Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Any amount of sleeping pills, if taken long term or in high doses in the short term, is harmful because they are highly addictive. In addition, they can cause many side effects in the long term. Also, you have not mentioned what your problem is. Sleep cycles can be managed in multiple other ways except for medications. Read about sleep hygiene, and try relaxation exercises like box breathing and progressive muscle relaxation. It will help you with improving your sleep.

Thank you.