Pharmacists have warned against frequent use of sleeping pills
They warned that night-shift workers who regularly use sleeping pills to force themselves to sleep during the day are at risk of drug dependence and addiction, impaired concentration, and reduced alertness when they return to work
The experts cautioned that repeated use of the medicines could lead to tolerance and dependence, while some preparations could leave users groggy after waking, potentially affecting their ability to function safely at work.
They also warned against taking sleeping pills with alcohol or other medicines that depress the central nervous system, urging people who struggle to sleep after night shifts to seek professional guidance rather than routinely relying on medication.
The World Health Organisation notes that tolerance and dependence on sedatives and sleeping pills can develop after a short period of use, while the medicines can also cause drowsiness, dizziness, confusion and difficulty concentrating. It warns that combining some sedatives and sleeping pills with alcohol, opioids or other depressant drugs can markedly increase the risk of overdose and de.ath.
In Nigeria, the National Drug Use Survey estimated that 481,000 people aged 15 to 64 used tranquilizers or sedatives in 2017, representing 0.5 per cent of the population in that age group.
Also, a Nigerian mental health survey involving 6,752 adults in 21 states found that 11.8 per cent had experienced insomnia in the previous 12 months.
In an exclusive interview with Punch Healthwise, the Superintendent Pharmacist at Engraced Pharmacy, Idimu, Lagos State, Jonah Okotie, said regular use of sleeping pills could lead to dependence, addiction and reduced cognition.
“It will lead to dependence, addiction, loss or reduction in cognition, making them prone to accidents at work amongst other things,” he said.
Okotie stated that repeated use of the medicines could also increase the risk of tolerance and dependence.
“Yes, it really does!” he said.
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