A recent study published in the Sleep Health journal has found a link between sleeping pills and an increased risk of dying early. The research, which analyzed data from over 484,000 adults, revealed that people who used sleeping pills had a significantly shorter life expectancy than those who did not.
The study’s authors examined the sleep patterns and medication use of participants, categorizing them into four groups based on their sleep duration: extremely short sleepers (less than 4 hours), short sleepers (4-6 hours), medium sleepers (6-8 hours), and long sleepers (over 8 hours). The results showed that people who slept 6 to 8 hours a night but used sleeping pills had a 55% higher mortality risk than non-users.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Yu Sun, stated that the findings are “staggering” and may indicate that taking sleeping pills is more than doubling the mortality risk. The researchers also found that long-term benzodiazepine use was linked to increased mortality rates among people over 65 years old.
While the study’s results are concerning, experts note that there may be underlying health issues contributing to the increased risk of death. Dr. Emma Lin and Dr. Ruchir Patel, two sleep medicine physicians, suggest that using sleeping pills can have negative effects on daily functioning and emotional states, which may indirectly contribute to increased mortality.
The study’s authors emphasize that stopping taking sleeping pills without consulting a doctor is not recommended, as it can lead to worsening sleep quality. Instead, doctors recommend addressing the underlying causes of insomnia, such as stress or respiratory problems, to develop effective treatment plans.
As with any medication, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of using sleeping pills. The study highlights the importance of discussing your sleep habits and health concerns with your doctor to make informed decisions about your care.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/common-pill-may-shorten-life-142500672.html