Most big-name sleep aids contain antihistamines, which treat allergy symptoms, as an active ingredient. For example, the active ingredient in both Zzzquil and Benadryl is diphenhydramine, an antihistamine that can make users drowsy. This makes antihistamines a dual-use medication thats smart to keep on hand while traveling, but health experts say antihistamines can have negative effects if theyre used long-term. Ask your doctor about using it as a general sleep aid.

|