When you're considering using sleeping pills, do it the right way and follow a few simple steps:

* Consult a doctor

While over the counter sleeping pills can be bought with no prescription, it's still highly advised to consult with a doctor before taking any medication. There can be better ways of handling your particular sleep problem and sedatives may be the last thing you need to take.

More importantly, your doctor can recommend the proper medication best suited for you, as some medications won't react well with other things you may be taking or other conditions that you may have.

* Take them only when you need them or as the doctor has prescribed

It's important to limit medication according to your doctor's advise. Sedatives and hypnotics can be addictive when taken without care and your doctor can guide you through a proper, more effective consumption.

Also, sleeping pills are generally considered a temporary remedy for sleeping problems. They treat symptoms but not the cause. Most of the over-the-counter stuff is intended to be taken for two or three nights only. It is important to work on finding the root of your problems and working on them, while using sleeping pills only as a temporary aid that you intend to discard after a certain time.

Alcohol can increase the sedative effect of sleeping pills, increasing the dizziness and drowsiness that they cause. This can give you nauseous headaches and even cause you to faint.

* Check with your doctor for any changes you're planning to do

If you feel you can sleep on your own without any medical aid, follow your doctor's advise or, at the least, the instructions on the medicine's label. Many medications require gradual withdrawal and can cause chemical imbalances when you vary the use abruptly.

* Watch for side effects

Check for any negative effects like vomiting, prolonged drowsiness or fainting during the day. This can mean the doctor will need to vary, adjust or totally change your medication.