Sleeping Pills: The Hidden Truth Behind Addiction and Brain Dependence

• Sleeping pills like Benzodiazepines and Z-drugs enhance GABA activity in the brain, inducing sleep but leading to dependence.
• Long-term use causes tolerance, requiring higher doses for the same effect, and dependence, where stopping leads to withdrawal symptoms.
• Some medications, like Alprazolam, affect the brain's reward system, creating psychological addiction by associating relief with the drug.
• Not all sleep medications are equally addictive; Melatonin-based supplements are generally low-risk as they mimic a natural hormone.
• Experts advise that sleeping pills are safe only for limited periods and should always be taken under a doctor's supervision.