Sleeping pills work well to help you sleep. They can help for a short time to break the cycle of bad sleep. But over time, the medicine doesn't work as well as lifestyle and behavior changes do. And some sleeping pills may work in part because of a placebo effect.

How long do sleeping pills take to kick in?

The usual dose is to take a 7.5mg tablet just before you go to bed. It takes around 1 hour to work. A lower dose of 3.75mg may be recommended to begin with if you're over 65 years old or have kidney or liver problems. Taking a lower dose in these cases reduces the risk of excessive sleepiness and other side effects.

Do sleeping pills give you good sleep?

Studies show that sleeping pills aren't that helpful in promoting a good night's rest. Most people who take sleep aids fall asleep about eight to 20 minutes faster than those without medicine. On average, you might get an additional 35 minutes of shuteye. Generally, sleep aids should be for short-term use.