This list was generated by AI as a supplement to my DSIP Sleep Peptide Post and video.
In our experience, DSIP truly is the only riskless, effective sleep aid available.
••• Go back to the DSIP post (here)•••
The below are genuine, science backed side-effects and risks (not rare claims)
Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine [Benadryl], Doxylamine [Unisom], Hydroxyzine):
• Increased dementia/Alzheimer’s risk with long-term use (anticholinergic effects).
• Cognitive impairment, confusion, memory loss, especially in older adults.
• Daytime drowsiness, grogginess, impaired driving/work performance.
• Anticholinergic side effects: dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision.
• Tolerance develops quickly, reducing effectiveness.
• Risk of falls in elderly due to sedation.
• Potential for parasomnias (e.g., sleepwalking).
Benzodiazepines (e.g., Alprazolam [Xanax], Clonazepam [Klonopin], Diazepam [Valium], Lorazepam [Ativan], Temazepam [Restoril], Triazolam [Halcion]):
• Dependency and addiction risk with prolonged use.
• Withdrawal symptoms, including rebound insomnia.
• Cognitive impairment, memory issues, confusion.
• Increased fall risk, especially in older adults.
• Respiratory depression, potentially fatal with overdose or alcohol.
• Daytime drowsiness, reduced alertness.
• Potential for arrhythmias or increased coronary flow rate.
Non-Benzodiazepine Hypnotics (Z-Drugs; e.g., Zolpidem [Ambien], Zaleplon [Sonata], Eszopiclone [Lunesta]):
• Dependency risk, though lower than benzodiazepines.
• Complex sleep behaviors (e.g., sleepwalking, sleep-driving).
• Hypotension, tachycardia in some cases (zolpidem).
• Daytime drowsiness, dizziness, impaired coordination.
• Cognitive impairment with long-term use.
• Rebound insomnia upon discontinuation.
• Increased fall risk in elderly.
Melatonin Receptor Agonists (e.g., Ramelteon [Rozerem], Tasimelteon [Hetlioz]):
• Minimal dependency risk but limited efficacy.
• Dizziness, fatigue, nausea.
• Potential hormonal effects, especially in children (melatonin).
• Daytime sleepiness, headache.
• Drug interactions with other sedatives.
Orexin Receptor Antagonists (e.g., Suvorexant [Belsomra], Daridorexant [Quviviq]):
• Potential for habit-forming behavior.
• Daytime somnolence, impaired driving risk.
• Headaches, dizziness, nausea.
• Rare risk of sleep paralysis or hallucinations.
• Limited long-term safety data.
Sedating Antidepressants (e.g., Amitriptyline, Doxepin [Silenor], Trazodone, Mirtazapine [Remeron], Nortriptyline):
• Anticholinergic effects (amitriptyline, nortriptyline): dementia risk, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention.
• Arrhythmia risk with tricyclics (e.g., amitriptyline).
• Daytime sedation, grogginess.
• Weight gain, decreased sexual drive.
• Overdose risk, especially with tricyclics.
• Worsening of restless legs syndrome (mirtazapine).
Barbiturates (e.g., Phenobarbital, Secobarbital [rarely used for sleep]):
• High dependency and overdose risk, potentially fatal.
• Respiratory depression, especially with alcohol.
• Cognitive impairment, confusion.
• Severe withdrawal symptoms.
• Daytime drowsiness, motor impairment.
OTC Supplements (e.g., Melatonin, Valerian, L-Theanine):
• Melatonin: hormonal disruption risk in children, pregnant/nursing women; dizziness, nausea.
• Valerian: morning sleepiness, potential liver toxicity with high doses; variable efficacy.
• L-Theanine: minimal side effects but limited evidence; possible grogginess with other sedatives.
General Risks Across All Sleep Medications:
• Increased stroke risk with frequent OTC use (e.g., antihistamines).
• Drug interactions (e.g., with alcohol, opioids, grapefruit juice).
• Reduced sleep quality (less restorative sleep, especially antihistamines).
• Impaired psychomotor skills, increasing accident risk.
• Not recommended for children, pregnant/nursing women, or elderly (except specific cases).
Diary of Recovery 