Difficulty falling asleep? To do a full night? Here are the drugs available in pharmacies, without a prescription.
We all have problems sleeping at certain times in life, either transient or long-lasting. There are “softer” solutions than the sleeping pills prescribed by doctors. Here are five you can try. And if your sleep disorders persist, consult.
1. Doxylamine (Donormyl®)
It’s a antihistamine molecule with sedative properties contained in the commercial specialties Lidène®, Donormyl® and its generics. Doxylamine is the only powerful sleeping pill available without a prescription. Its administration is limited to 5 days in case of occasional insomnia due to possible side effects such as heart palpitations and visual disturbances. Note that the history of angle-closure glaucoma and risk of urinary retention are contraindications to treatment. Contrary to popular belief, these drugs are associated with a low risk of addiction.
2. Euphytosis®
It’s a sedative and anxiolytic herbal medicine : valerian, passion flowerhawthorn and bale. It is used in particular to promote sleep. Treatment should not exceed 1 month and a medical consultation is strongly recommended after 15 days if sleep disorders persist.
3. PC® Sedative Melt Granules
This is a homeopathic medicine, in granules or sublingual tablets, indicated in minor sleep disorders. The methods of taking are characterized by a splitting of the dosage into 3 doses per day, away from meals, to reduce the stress of the day and sleep better at night. The duration of treatment is limited to 15 days in adults and 10 days in children. If symptoms persist beyond 7 days, medical advice is recommended.
4. L72® in drops
Presented in the form of drinkable drops or orodispersible tablets, this homeopathic medicine is indicated for minor sleep disorders caused by nervousness and anxiety. In self-medication, taking the treatment should not exceed 2 weeks in adults. On the other hand, in children, the duration is limited to 10 days for the tablets and 5 days for the oral solution due to the presence of alcohol. Whatever the pharmaceutical form, administration is preferable to distance from meals by keeping the medicine under the tongue before swallowing it.
5. Calcibronat® in effervescent tablets
This medicine used in the treatment of mild sleep disturbances is marketed in the form of effervescent tablets containing a combination of calcium and bromine. Administration is limited to one maximum duration of 3 weeks to avoid drug accumulation in the body. In the event of renewal of the treatment, a minimum waiting period of 3 weeks must be respected before starting a new course.
What precautions should be taken with sleep medication?
► In order to respect the recommended dosages, refer to the medicine leaflet or ask your pharmacist for advice if in doubt.
► Due to the sedative effect of Donormyl®, Euphytose® and Calcibronat®, administration is recommended 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime.
► If your sleep problems persist or worsen, you shouldz consult your doctor in order to benefit from more powerful sleeping pills. Likewise, if your child suffers from sleep disturbances, you should seek advice from a healthcare professional.
► Sleep medications available without a prescription are not all indicated in children. Indeed, doxylamine is reserved for adults. With regard to other drugs, the indication varies: from 12 years for Euphytose®, from 30 kg for Calcibronat® and from 30 months for Sédatif PC® and L72®.
- Public Drug Database
- ANSM