Insomnia—difficulty falling or staying asleep—is a common problem that affects millions of people.
To get a better night’s sleep, many turn to sleep medications, whether over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor.
These drugs include benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and sedative-hypnotics like Ambien. While they can offer short-term relief, new research warns that long-term use may come with serious risks—especially for older adults.
A recent study, led by researcher Dr. Yue Leng from the University of California, observed more than 3,000 older adults over an average of nine years. None of the participants had dementia at the start of the study.
Over time, however, about 20% of them developed the condition. What stood out most was the difference in dementia risk between racial groups.
White participants who frequently used sleep medications were found to be 79% more likely to develop dementia than those who didn’t use these drugs. In contrast, Black participants, who generally used sleep medications less often, did not show an increased risk.
Why the difference? One possible reason is access and exposure. White participants in the study had more access to a variety of sleep aids, including benzodiazepines, trazodone, and Z-drugs like Ambien. These medications may carry a higher risk of affecting brain health over time. The more frequently and heavily they are used, the greater the potential impact.
The study raises important questions—not just about whether sleep medications increase dementia risk, but how the type and amount of drug use might influence that risk. It also highlights the need to look more closely at who is using these medications and why.
Given these findings, experts urge caution when it comes to long-term use of sleep aids, especially among older adults. Instead of turning to pills first, doctors often recommend exploring other treatments for insomnia that may be safer.
One highly recommended option is cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). This approach focuses on changing thoughts and habits that interfere with sleep. Unlike medications, CBT-I doesn’t come with side effects and has been shown to provide lasting benefits.
Another step is to address any underlying health issues that may be causing poor sleep—like sleep apnea, depression, or chronic pain. In some cases, treating the root cause can significantly improve sleep without the need for medication.
Some people also consider melatonin, a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. It is generally thought to be safer than stronger drugs, but scientists still don’t fully understand its long-term effects, so caution is still advised.
Ultimately, this research is a reminder that sleep is deeply connected to overall brain health, especially in older age. What may seem like a simple fix—a pill to fall asleep—can carry long-term consequences. That’s why personalized medical advice is essential, and why healthcare providers need to weigh the risks and benefits carefully.
The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that lifestyle habits and common treatments might have more impact on long-term health than we once thought.
In conclusion, while sleep medications may help in the short term, they should not be the first or only option for treating insomnia—especially in older adults. Safer, more sustainable strategies like CBT-I and lifestyle changes may not only improve sleep but also help protect the brain for years to come.
If you care about brain health, please read studies about how the Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies about antioxidants that could help reduce dementia risk, and Coconut oil could help improve cognitive function in Alzheimer’s.
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