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What Prescription Sleep Medications Are Available?

You might be familiar with over-the-counter sleep aids, but these medications require a prescription.

Lauren Smith, MASanjai Sinha, MD
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD
Updated on September 13, 2025
Featuring Stacia Woodcock, PharmDReviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD | September 13, 2025

When you think of sleep medications, you likely think of over-the-counter options. Many over-the-counter sleep medications are only for short-term or occasional use. For some people, prescription sleep medications may be a better option.

In this video, learn about the different types of sleep medications available by prescription, according to Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, Pharmacy Editor at GoodRx.

References

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Sanjai Sinha, MD
Reviewed by:
Sanjai Sinha, MD
Sanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in internal medicine.

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