A good sleep is needed for both physical and mental well-being. However, not everyone gets characteristically restorative sleep. There are many reasons for this including but not limited to stress, second and third-screen time before bed, and having a sleep routine that is more routine than sleep. When lifestyle changes and home remedies (aromatherapy meditation) aren’t working, some people might turn to medications instead. This article will review and compare two sleeping medications, Melatonin vs Ambien, and help identify which medication may be best for you.
In this article we will look at the differences between commonly used sleep drugs, Melatonin and Ambien, as well as their side effects and whether you can take them together. If you have ever wondered “What is better Melatonin or Ambien?” or “Can I take Melatonin and Ambien?” then read on! This article will answer your question more simply and directly.
The Difference Between Melatonin and Ambien
Melatonin supplements are often used by people who struggle to fall asleep. This is because melatonin doesn’t need a prescription is generally safe and has a low profile of adverse effects. Ambien is a sleeping pill that is often more potent and is frequently prescribed by a doctor because a patient suffers from real, chronic insomnia or sleep problems; they are generally quick-starting, designed to help the patient fall asleep faster and can sometimes become dependent-forming based on the dosage or duration of use.
What Is Melatonin?
Over-the-counter Melatonin supplementation is widely available and is used quite often for this purpose. Individuals who have trouble falling asleep, particularly shift workers and travelers who have changes in time zones have been known to benefit from this supplement. Some people also find it useful to reset their sleep cycle (search as from traveling).
Melatonin does not have the same sedative effects as pharmaceutical drugs. It works more to notify you that it’s time to relax and begin the sleep cycle. Typically thought to be safe for short periods of time, an individual could react differently.
What Is Ambien?
Ambien is going to interact with certain brain chemicals that have likely become out of balance in a patient with sleep problems and in general, it makes a person fall a sleep. Due to its rapid onset (15-30 minutes), it puts you to sleep very rapidly. Ambien is probably one of the better short-term sleep medications, especially when the person has exhausted all other behavioral approaches.
When comparing Ambien vs Melatonin, Ambien has more risk factors than Melatonin. Ambien is stronger and is going to interact with more areas of brain function; these additional areas of functional activity increase the risk for side effects/dependency. Use of it in general is limited to brief prescriptions and must be made under the care/supervision of a doctor.
Can You Take Melatonin and Ambien Together?
One of the most common questions people ask is, “Can you take Melatonin and Ambien together?” The answer is it depends.
You can find no actual known harmful interactions between Melatonin and Ambien. It is possible that taking Ambien and melatonin together will make you feel more drowsy or sedative. This could lead to waking up feeling groggy the next day or cases of sleepwalking (although rare).
Some studies suggest that combining Ambien with Melatonin, taken before going to sleep, may provide a sleep benefit greater than either medication alone, especially if either medication is relatively ineffective on its own. Overall, you should always consult your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of taking any medications together. Although melatonin is a natural and over-the-counter sleep aid, it is advisable to exercise caution when combining it with a strong prescription sleep medication like Ambien.
How Much Melatonin Is Equal to Ambien?
Another really common question is, “How much melatonin equals Ambien?”
It’s not exactly cut and dry. Melatonin and Ambien are completely different things. The hormone and natural chemical that tells you the time on your clock is called melatonin.
For example, the starting dose for most people would be at a melatonin level from about 0.5-5 mg, while Ambien for the average person is 5 mg– 10 mg. Again, these cannot be compared. One product is natural and slower acting, the other is from a pharmacy and fast acting.
If you are not sure what to try or are even wondering if you could try them at the same time I think it is great to have that conversation with your doctor.
Side Effects: Ambien vs Melatonin
Between Melatonin vs Ambien it’s important to understand the possible side effects of each.
Side Effects of Melatonin
Melatonin is usually well-tolerated especially in small doses. However some people may experience:
- Daytime drowsiness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Mild anxiety
Side Effects of Ambien
Ambien side effects can be more serious especially if it’s taken regularly or in high doses. Some common side effects include:
- Drowsiness the next day
- Memory problems
- Confusion
- Sleepwalking
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations
FAQ
Is it Ok to mix Ambien and Melatonin?
It may be acceptable for certain individuals to mix taking Ambien and melatonin with medical supervision. Mixing them can increase the risk of being overly sedated and doing strange things while asleep.
Which is better Melatonin or Ambien?
Melatonin is sufficient depending on the sleep problem that you have. If you have a mild problem falling asleep or are adjusting to time zones, melatonin may be enough. If your insomnia is more serious and not responding to anything else, a short course of Ambien may be a better option. The answer does lie in knowing your body and history, and talking to a doctor.
Are Melatonin and Ambien safe?
Both are safe when used correctly. Melatonin is considered very safe for short-term use and has very few side effects. The Ambien medication has more risks and must be used with more caution and prescriptions from a medical doctor.
Can I take Ambien every night?
Doctors typically recommend that the Ambien pill be used for a few nights, like 7 to 10 days. Extended use with nightly use can lead to dependency or other poor health outcomes.
Conclusion
Choosing which one to sleep in is your own decision. Melatonin is relatively mild, natural, and ultimately more effective for small sleep issues. Ambien is much more potent, quicker to act, and will help with more serious sleep issues.
If you are thinking about taking Ambien vs melatonin together, or having questions about melatonin and Ambien interacting, talk to your doctor before consuming any combination of some supplements and medications. Mixing supplements and medications can come with unwanted side effects especially if you do not know if the combination is regarded as safe.
At the end of the day, the goal is not just to fall asleep but for you to wake and when you wake to feel rested and alert the next day. So be careful do your homework and develop a plan which promotes your health, safety and long term overall sleep quality.