Wednesday, May 06, 2009

Use of sleep medication on the rise

According to Information Resources, Inc. (IRI), nighttime pain-relief products generated more than $156 million spent at food markets, drugstores, and mass outlets (excluding Wal-Mart) during the 52 weeks ending January 25, 2009.

This represents 6 percent of the overall internal analgesics category and a 1.5 percent increase over the same period last year. In addition, in terms of units sold, three nighttime pain relievers currently rank among the top 50 internal analgesics. Who uses nighttime pain relievers and why?

According to the National Institutes of Health, about 70 million people suffer from a chronic sleep disorder or intermittent sleep problem. Intermittent sleep problems can be caused by many factors, one of which is pain. Headaches, backaches, muscle aches, minor arthritis pain, and menstrual cramps are common types of pain keeping people awake at night.

A new poll released by the National Sleep Foundation shows that only 32 percent of Americans who admit to having sleep problems report them to their physicians. Those who choose to deal with their problems themselves have the option of using OTC sleep aids.

Individuals experiencing both pain and sleeplessness may choose a nighttime pain-relief medication. Regular OTC sleep aids typically contain diphenhydramine hydrochloric acid, an antihistamine with sedating properties. Most major brands of nighttime pain relievers, however, also contain an analgesic such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, or aspirin. Instead of taking two pills, consumers just need one.

Bonnie - keep in mind these stats do not include the increase in prescription sleep medication, which is also predictably on the rise. I implore anyone who has trouble sleeping to at least look at natural alternatives first before turning to meds, which often come with debilitating side-effects. Our Sleep Well Action Plan is an economical self-help guide.

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