The holidays are meant to be joyful, but the combination of travel, packed schedules, and disrupted routines can take a toll on both stress levels and sleep. As a result, many people reach for over-the-counter remedies to help them rest. Experts say it is important to use these products safely, especially when mixing them with other medications, alcohol, or caffeine.
“During the stressful holiday season, people often reach for easily accessible products when they are having trouble sleeping,” said Marissa Harle, Pharmacy Resident at Aspirus Health. “Some of the most common include products that contain diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, as well as herbal supplements and vitamins like chamomile or magnesium.”
Know What You’re Taking
Even though these products are sold over the counter, Harle says they are not risk-free. Many can cause next-day sleepiness and may interact with other medications a person takes regularly.
“Diphenhydramine can lead to morning drowsiness, especially in older adults,” Harle said. “Supplements like melatonin and magnesium are not regulated the same way prescription medications are, so it is important to know what you are taking and how it may interact with other products.”
These sleep aids are meant for short-term, occasional use.
“Using these products more than what is recommended may actually be masking the real problem at hand, such as excessive stress or drinking caffeine too late in the day,” Harle said.
Avoid Stacking Sedating Products
Many nighttime cold and pain medicines already contain sedating ingredients. Taking a sleep aid on top of those compounds the effect and makes that sedation stronger.
Alcohol can intensify the drowsiness caused by these products as well.
“When alcohol is combined with these products, it can worsen the sleepiness you experience,” Harle said.
Use Extra Caution When Traveling
The holidays often involve long drives, early flights, or navigating crowded airports. Sedating medications can make these situations more challenging.
“These products can affect your ability to think clearly the next day,” Harle said. “That becomes especially important when you need to drive, travel, or operate anything that requires your full attention.”
When to Ask for Help
Harle encourages people to talk with their pharmacist if they find themselves using sleep aids more than occasionally, or if they are an older adult, pregnant, or managing chronic conditions. “Your pharmacist can help identify the safest option for you and may even recommend non-medication approaches that could be better for long-term use,” she said.
If you have questions about sleep aids or how different products may interact, your local pharmacist is a reliable resource who can guide you toward options that support safe and healthy sleep during the holidays.