Sleeping pills increase chances of premature death

The researchers at the Laval University School of Psychology in Quebec found out that death rates are much higher among people who pop pills either to sleep or ease anxiety, without consulting their doctors first.

"These medications aren't candy and taking them is far from harmless," said study leader Dr. Genevieve Belleville, from Laval University's School of Psychology in Quebec.

She added that some of these drugs are quite powerful and can be potentially fatal for people suffering from ailments like psychosis, breathing problems, and heart disease.

These pills are not just harmful for people with aforementioned health conditions only; they can also create health problems for those with no medical history as sleeping pills are highly addictive.

Researchers’ findings
To come to their conclusion, Dr. Belleville along with her research team thoroughly analyzed the data collected over the period of 12 years by studying more than 12,000 Canadians.

Pills used by patients in the data ranged from OTC (over-the-counter) drugs like antihistamines to Valium, which is a powerful drug and should not be taken without prescription.

After taking into account tobacco and alcohol consumption, physical activeness, and depression, researchers found that pill users are 36 percent more at the risk of dying prematurely.

However, the study did not provide clear statistics of heavy users and those who took these pills occasionally.

Side-effects of sleeping pills
As per study researchers, pill users’ body’s immunity weakens after long and continuous use, and they are more likely to succumb to every kind of illness, ranging from parasites to cancer.

These drugs also start affecting users’ co-ordination and alertness levels, making them prone to falls and other accidents.

Pill users can also start having breathing problems while sleeping as these tablets can suppress the respiratory system.

These pills can have adverse effects if given to children, pregnant women, or people suffering from liver problems.

Alternatives of sleeping pills
Many medical experts believe that CBT (cognitive behavior therapy) is a better way to deal with sleeping disorders, anxiety, or stress related disease.

Dr. Belleville said, "Given that cognitive behavioral therapies have shown good results in treating insomnia and anxiety, doctors should systematically discuss such therapies with their patients as an option.

"Combining a pharmacological approach in the short-term with psychological treatment is a promising strategy for reducing anxiety and promoting sleep."

The study results were recently published in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry.