For Sleep

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Sominex, Compoz) is a sedating antihistamine. Its primary effect is to reduce histamine release in the body, which occurs when you have an immune or allergic response to something such as poison ivy or shellfish. Its secondary effect is sedation, which causes you to feel sleepy.

• Do not take any sleeping pills for several nights in a row because they can cause other problems. If you have trouble sleeping, you should see your doctor for advice.



• Health food stores sell sleep aids such as valerian root extract and melatonin. They are not regulated by the FDA, so there is not much information about their safety and efficacy. However, they do provide some relief to many people who have problems sleeping. It is important not to take too much of any of these sleep aids.