If you struggle with sleep apnea, it’s natural to look for anything that might help you get the rest you need. Because sleeping pills are designed to help people fall asleep more easily, some patients wonder whether they could also improve sleep apnea symptoms. However, the relationship between sleep apnea and sleep medications is more complex than it may seem. In many cases, traditional sleeping pills do not help—and may even make symptoms worse.
Why Sleeping Pills Aren’t a Solution
Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder, not a sleep-falling-asleep issue. During the night, your airway repeatedly becomes blocked, causing pauses in breathing. These interruptions lower oxygen levels, strain your heart, and jolt your body out of deeper sleep, often without you realizing it.
Sleeping pills work by relaxing the brain and muscles to promote sleep. The problem? They may also relax the muscles in your throat. For someone with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), this can increase airway collapse and lead to more frequent or longer breathing interruptions. In short, you may sleep more deeply, but your breathing may become less safe.
Because of this risk, most doctors recommend avoiding typical sedatives—especially without discussing them with a sleep specialist.
Are There Exceptions?
There are rare cases where certain prescription sleep aids may be used alongside sleep apnea treatment, especially if the patient also struggles with insomnia. Some people with sleep apnea experience what’s known as “COMISA” (co-morbid insomnia and sleep apnea). In those situations, a doctor may carefully prescribe a non-relaxing sleep aid or a short-term medication that doesn’t worsen airway obstruction.
But even then, these medicines are not a treatment for sleep apnea itself—they only address insomnia symptoms. Effective sleep apnea management still requires therapies like CPAP, oral appliances, lifestyle changes, or airway-focused medical care.
What Actually Helps Sleep Apnea?
If you’re looking for safer, proven solutions, consider:
- CPAP therapy to keep your airway open.
- Custom oral appliances made by a dentist.
- Weight management if recommended.
- Positional therapy to avoid sleeping on your back.
- Avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bed.
- Treating nasal congestion or allergies.
These approaches actually target the root cause: airway obstruction.
Sleeping pills may seem like a quick fix for restless nights, but they generally do not help with sleep apnea and may even make it more dangerous. If you’re struggling with poor sleep, morning headaches, or loud snoring, talk to your dentist or sleep specialist before turning to medication. The right treatment can improve your breathing, your rest, and your long-term health.
About the Author
Dr. Kyle Sharp received his undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas Fort Smith and is a graduate of the Texas A&M School of Dentistry. His favorite aspect of dentistry lies in the small, personal atmosphere of patient care. Dr. Sharp enjoys using his knowledge and skill to alleviate pain, create stunning smiles, and build genuine connections. Are you struggling with sleep apnea? Let us help you get your precious rest back. Schedule an appointment online or call (479) 648-9988.