Can minors take sleeping pills?
Mar 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
Hypnotics, also known as sedative-hypnotic drugs, should generally not be taken by minors. Sedative-hypnotic drugs usually contain ingredients that have an inhibitory effect on the central nervous system, such as benzodiazepine derivatives and barbituric acid derivatives. Since the liver, kidney function, and nervous system of minors are still in the developmental stage, their ability to metabolize and excrete these drugs is relatively weak.
Sedative-hypnotic drugs, commonly known as sleeping pills, generally should not be taken by minors. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Sedative-hypnotic drugs usually contain ingredients that inhibit the central nervous system, such as benzodiazepine derivatives and barbituric acid derivatives. Since minors are still in the developmental stage regarding liver and kidney function and the nervous system, their ability to metabolize and excrete these drugs is relatively weak, making them more susceptible to drug effects. Long-term use of sedative-hypnotic drugs may lead to problems in minors such as inattention, slowed reaction time, and impaired memory. In severe cases, drug dependence and drug tolerance might even develop.
Furthermore, sedative-hypnotic drugs may also have adverse effects on the mental health of minors. The psychological and emotional states of minors are relatively fragile and susceptible to external influences. Although sedative-hypnotic drugs can help improve sleep in the short term, long-term reliance on medication to address sleep issues may reduce minors' ability to regulate their emotions psychologically. Additionally, these drugs may negatively affect minors' emotions and personality, potentially causing psychological problems such as depression and anxiety.
In daily life, minors should maintain good sleeping habits and a positive mindset. It is recommended they go to bed early, wake up early, avoid staying up late, and ensure sufficient sleep duration.
