Understanding the Risks of Sleeping Pills
Rumour: Sleeping Pills Increase the Risk of Falls and Fractures
The claim that sleeping pills elevate the likelihood of falls and fractures is accurate.
Types of Sleeping Pills
Sleeping pills, commonly prescribed by physicians to address insomnia and other sleep-related issues, fall into two main categories: benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepines.
Effects of Sleeping Pills
Both categories of sleeping pills reduce alertness and can lead to daytime drowsiness. Patients using benzodiazepines face a heightened risk of falls and bone fractures.
The Safer Alternative
Non-benzodiazepines are often recommended by healthcare providers as a safer alternative due to their comparatively fewer side effects.
Research Findings
Recent research conducted in Israel reviewed previous studies to assess whether non-benzodiazepines also contribute to an increased risk of falls and fractures. The findings, published in the scientific journal *Age and Ageing*, indicated that individuals taking non-benzodiazepines are indeed more prone to falling.
Further Reading
To explore more about this study, click here.