OTC Product Roundup: Sleep Aids

Melatonin (5 MG)

Natural remedies: Nature Made Melatonin Tablets

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone the body produces in response to darkness. It helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle by signaling to the brain when it is time to prepare for rest. Increasing melatonin levels helps promote drowsiness and facilitate sleep onset. Nature Made melatonin is a drugfree supplement crafted from high-quality ingredients to help people sleep faster and support restful sleep.

Send patients on their way to a better night’s sleep with these OTC sleep aid products. | image credit: Pormezz / stock.adobe.com

Counseling Pearls

• Adults should take 1 Nature Made melatonin supplement 1 hour before bedtime with water and not exceed 2 tablets daily.
• Nature Made melatonin supplements have no color added, no artificial flavors, and no preservatives. They are gluten free and not habit forming.
• Nature Made melatonin is not intended for individuals younger than 18 years.

Antihistamines

Unisom SleepGels Softgels Diphenhydramine HCl 50 mg

Diphenhydramine works by blocking histamine, a wakefulness-inducing chemical, promoting drowsiness. It also calms the nervous system for easier sleep onset. With the help of non–habit-forming diphenhydramine, Unisom SleepGels help users enjoy a restful night’s sleep to recharge and restore their bodies.

Counseling Pearls

• Adults and children 12 years and older should take 1 softgel at bedtime if needed or as directed by a doctor.
• Unisom SleepGels should not be used with any other product containing diphenhydramine, even those used on theskin.
• Diphenhydramine is not recommended for long-term use; stop use and ask a doctor if sleeplessness persists for more than 2 weeks.

Valerian Root (1200 MG)

Herbal supplements: Nature’s Truth Valerian Root Capsules

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is a time-honored herbal remedy often used to encourage sleep. Traditionally consumed in tinctures and teas, research suggests it may promote relaxation by reducing brain activity in specific areas or increasing levels of γ aminobutyric acid. Nature’s Truth Valerian Root delivers the equivalent of 2400 mg of a Valerian Root proprietary blend in every serving.

Counseling Pearls

• Adults should take 2 Nature’s Truth Valerian Root quick-release capsules 30 minutes before bedtime or rest.
• Nature’s Truth Valerian Root capsules are non–genetically modifi ed organisms free of gluten, wheat, yeast, milk, lactose, soy, artificial color, artificial flavor, artificial flavor, artificial sweetener, and preservatives.
• Nature’s Truth Valerian Root capsules are suggested for use in individuals 18 years and older.

To read these stories and more, download the PDF of the Drug Topics November/December issue here.

Ready to impress your pharmacy colleagues with the latest drug information, industry trends, and patient care tips? Sign up today for our free Drug Topics newsletter.