Insomnia
Over the counter relief options
Falling asleep is not that Easy?
Insomnia is a common sleep problem that makes it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested in the morning. It may be triggered by stress, anxiety, irregular schedules, screen use, or physical discomfort.
People often experience restlessness or frequent awakenings, leading to daytime fatigue and difficulty concentrating.
Understanding what’s causing the sleep disruption is an important first step in managing occasional insomnia and preventing ongoing sleep difficulties. Insomnia can be managed with many over the counter products including different antihistamines, natural products and magnesium.​​
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
The following are the recommended products for insomnia relief, with pharmacist pro tips and selection criteria. Please be advised that if you buy something through these Amazon links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.
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Diphenhydramine
A non-habit-forming nighttime sleep aid that helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep because of its sedative effects. Common side effects include dry mouth and next-morning grogginess, especially in sensitive individuals.
Tip: It works best when taken 30–60 minutes before bed. Common side effects include dry mouth and next-morning grogginess, especially in sensitive individuals.
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Doxylamine (Unisom®)
A sedating antihistamine used for occasional sleeplessness. It is often considered stronger and longer-lasting than diphenhydramine, but it may cause more pronounced next-day drowsiness.
Tip: Doxylamine can be helpful when difficulty falling asleep is paired with frequent nighttime awakenings.
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Melatonin-Containing Products
Melatonin supplements support the body’s natural sleep–wake cycle and are most effective for circadian rhythm disruptions, such as jet lag, shift-work transitions, or difficulty falling asleep at a consistent time.
Tip: melatonin is not a strong sedative, but it helps signal the brain that it is time to sleep.
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Magnesium glycinate
It is a gentle, well-tolerated mineral that may promote relaxation, ease muscle tension, and support more restful sleep.
Tip: unlike sedating medications, it works by calming the nervous system and improving sleep quality rather than inducing sleep directly.
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Advil® PM (Ibuprofen + Diphenhydramine)
Pairs pain relief (ibuprofen) with diphenhydramine to help you fall asleep when discomfort—such as headaches, muscle aches, or menstrual cramps—interferes with rest.
Tip: more helpful when pain is the primary barrier to sleep.​
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Tylenol® PM (Acetaminophen + Diphenhydramine)
Combines acetaminophen for pain relief with diphenhydramine for sleep support. It is suitable for people who experience difficulty sleeping due to mild pain, headaches, or general discomfort
Tip: it is safer that Ibuprofen for people with stomach problems.
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Herbal Teas
Herbal teas such as chamomile, lavender, valerian root, and passionflower contain naturally calming compounds that help reduce stress and support relaxation.
Tip: herbal teas do not act as sedatives, they promote a soothing bedtime routine and can help prepare the mind and body for sleep.​
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Which one to choose?
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For occasional sleeplessness, start with diphenhydramine or doxylamine.
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Use melatonin for sleep cycle disruptions (like jet lag).
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Magnesium glycinate may help if restlessness or muscle tension makes it harder to sleep.
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Choose Advil® PM or Tylenol® PM if pain is what keeps you awake.
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Some Herbal teas found to be helpful in relxation and sleep induction.
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Avoid frequent use of antihistamine-based sleep aids, as they may cause tolerance or next-day drowsiness.
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