From the FDA Drug Label
If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
The most effective approach for managing sleep issues during pregnancy is to prioritize non-pharmacological interventions, as they have been shown to improve sleep quality in 70% to 80% of patients with insomnia, as noted in the study by 1. When considering the best medication for sleep in pregnancy, it's essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits. Some key points to consider include:
- Non-pharmacological interventions, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding caffeine and screens before bedtime, should be the first line of approach.
- If these measures are not effective, medications like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or low-dose doxylamine (Unisom) may be considered, but their use should be limited to the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration possible, as suggested by 2 and 3.
- Prescription sleep medications like zolpidem (Ambien) are generally avoided during pregnancy unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks, as indicated by 4 and 5.
- Recent studies, such as the one published in 2022 by 5, highlight the importance of addressing sleep disorders during pregnancy, as poor sleep quality is associated with increased odds of preterm birth, cesarean section, hypertension, gestational diabetes, and longer deliveries.
- The study by 3 also emphasizes the need for high-quality randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness of different interventions for sleep problems during pregnancy. Overall, the approach to managing sleep issues during pregnancy should prioritize non-pharmacological interventions and careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits of medication use, with the goal of minimizing harm and promoting the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.