Treatment is available - but it depends on what is causing your insomnia. For occasional sleepless nights, sleeping pills may be helpful. Although sleeping pills do not treat the underlying cause of insomnia, they may help you get some much needed rest.

The options
Today's sleeping pills do not carry the same risks of dependence and lethal overdoses as sleeping pills of the past. But risks remain - especially for people who have certain medical conditions, including liver and kidney disease. Here is the lowdown on some of the most common types of sleeping pills used today.

Over-the-counter medications: Various over-the-counter sleeping pills are available in any pharmacy. Many of these medications contain antihistamines, which induce drowsiness by working against the central nervous system chemical histamine. They are most effective for an occasional sleepless night. The more often you take them, the less effective they become.

Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic medications:Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic medications are the newest class of sleeping pills. They quiet the nervous system, which helps induce sleep. They are metabolized quickly, which helps reduce the risk of side effects the next day.

Benzodiazepine hypnotic medications:

Benzodiazepines are an older class of sleeping pills. They are more likely than newer types to cause drowsiness or headaches the next morning, and they may become habit forming.

Sedating antidepressants: Sometimes drugs used mainly to treat depression may ease insomnia when taken in lower doses. When insomnia is secondary to depression or anxiety, antidepressants can improve both conditions at the same time. Antidepressants are available by prescription only.

Dietary supplements: Various dietary supplements have been touted as effective insomnia treatments. The most widely publicised may be the hormone melatonin.

Other supplements - such as valerian, chamomile and kava - have yet to be fully studied for safety or effectiveness in relieving insomnia.

Taking sleeping pills
If your best attempts to get a good night's sleep have failed, over-the-counter or prescription sleeping pills may be an option. Use them safely.

Start with your doctor: You do not need your doctor's OK to take an over-the-counter sleeping aid, but it is a good idea to check with your doctor anyway. He or she can make sure the sleeping pills will not interact with other medications or medical conditions. Your doctor can also help you determine the best dosage. In some cases, your doctor may recommend prescription sleeping pills. If you and your doctor decide further evaluation is needed, you may be referred to a sleep specialist.

Take it one day at a time: Sleeping pills are a temporary solution for insomnia. Most over-the-counter varieties are intended to be used for only two to three nights at a time. Taken too often, some sleeping pills may cause rebound insomnia - sleeplessness that returns in full force when you stop taking the medication.

Avoid alcohol: Never mix alcohol and sleeping pills. Alcohol increases the sedative effects of the pills. Even a small amount of alcohol combined with sleeping pills can make you feel dizzy, confused or faint.

Quit carefully: When you are ready to stop taking sleeping pills, follow your doctor's instructions or the directions on the label. Some medications must be stopped gradually.

Watch for side effects: If you feel sleepy or dizzy during the day, talk to your doctor about changing the dosage or discontinuing the pills. Everyone deserves a good night's sleep. If you continue to have trouble sleeping, consult your doctor for additional help.