Originally posted by wahomy:
Hi , has anyone taken sleeping pills before?
I just want to know whether are there any harmful side effects when taking those pills?
And will i really be sleeping when i took those pills? As in will be so strong such that I will confirmed be in a deep sleep and not easily awaken?
Stilnox is good. It will knock you off within 5 mins, but it only last for 4 - 6 hours. So if you have other problem leading to your insomnia, you will automatically wake up from your sleep as soon as the effect wears off. But you will feel sleepy in the morning (hangover)
But hor... cannot take for too many days one. Your body will develop dependency on this to doze off. I took this before and my family saw me sleepwalking

This medication is only prescribed by specialists. Normal GP will prescribe other kind of sleeping pills: zopiclone, diazepam (Valium®) etc.
Last time I ever took this medication from a GP that is not addictive at all, and was very good if sleeplessness is due to stress and anxiety. It's called Lormetazepam. I used to get panic attack and palpitation due to work stress. This medication actually calms me down (ie. slows down my heartbeat) without side effect. But now I moved out of the neighbourhood and stop going to this GP. So I could only get zopiclone and diazepam as and when I need it.
Zopiclone gives me dry mouth in the morning and hangover while diazepam doesn't seem to work for me

In any case, if you have the time, go for a very good massage and pamper yourself. It's a better and healthier way to get a good sleep.
I just went to a TCM to do "cupping" and that night I slept so well.
Ear candling also helps too. Try the one at south bridge road's Kenko. Atmosphere very relaxing. Go for a good massage or ear candling etc, and then go home.
Sleeping pills are only for very desperate case and busy ppl who have no time to relax.