According to a recent study, concerns have been raised about the effects of sleeping pills on brain health. Specifically, zolpidem, an ingredient used in sleeping pills like Ambien, interferes with the brain's natural process of clearing toxic proteins. As a result, this may increase the risk of neurological problems like Alzheimer's.

In this study, published in the medical journal Cell, researchers studied the glymphatic system in the brain. This system works to clear harmful proteins in the brain. In a study conducted on laboratory mice, researchers observed through brain electrical readings and imaging that during non-REM sleep, a chemical called norepinephrine produces synchronized waves in the brain. These waves help pump cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. This clears proteins like tau and amyloid. When these proteins accumulate, the risk of Alzheimer's increases.

Dr. Maikon Nedergaard, co-director of the Center for Translational Neuromedicine at the University of Rochester, and his team found that zolpidem suppresses norepinephrine waves, disrupting the function of the glymphatic system and slowing the process of removing waste products from the brain.

Dr. Nedergaard said the study found that sleeping pills have a negative impact on brain health. The researchers also pointed out that these findings are based on animal studies and further research is needed to determine whether sleeping pills have long-term effects on the human brain.

Easy Ways to Improve Sleep Quality

Set a regular bedtime.
Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Even on vacation, wake up at the same time every day.

Create a comfortable sleep environment.
Keep your bedroom cool and quiet at bedtime. Avoid using screens an hour before bedtime.

Avoid caffeine or alcohol
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol before bed. Instead, choose herbal teas like chamomile or valerian root.

Exercise regularly:
Physical activity throughout the day can help you sleep better. But avoid strenuous or intense exercise right before bed.

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