All of these pills have risks, especially for older
adults:
Barbiturates
• Secobarbital (Seconal and generic)
• Phenobarbital (Luminal and generic)
Benzodiazepines
For anxiety:
• Alprazolam (Xanax and generic)
• Diazepam (Valium and generic)
• Lorazepam (Ativan and generic)
For insomnia:
• Estazolam (generic only)
• Flurazepam (Dalmane and generic)
• Quazepam (Doral)
• Temazepman (Restoril and generic)
• Triazolam (Halcion and generic)
”Z” drugs
• Zolpidem (Ambien and generic)
• Eszopicione (Lunesta)
• Zaleplon (Sonata and generic)
Over-the-counter drugs may not be a good
choice.Side efects of some drugs can be especially
bothersome for seniors: next-day drowsiness,
confusion, constipation, dry mouth, and difculty
urinating. Avoid these over-the-counter sleep drugs:
• Diphenhydramine (Benadry Allergyl, Nytol,
Sominex, and generic)
• Doxylamine (Unisom and generic).
• Advil PM
• Tylenol PM
