Experts warn not to mix sleep medications

WESTCHESTER, Ill., Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Those taking sleep medications should tell the doctor about other prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, U.S. sleep experts warn.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises that sleep medications can be dangerous when treating sleep disruption that may arise from another disorder.

The group recommends that individuals be warned that some patients may suffer side effects such as memory difficulties or complex sleep behaviors such as sleep walking or sleep eating.

The AASP advises those taking sleep medications to:

-- Pay careful attention to instructions and side effect information provided by the physician, the pharmacist and instructions on the package.

-- Allow time for a full night's sleep to avoid morning or daytime drowsiness.

-- Not combine sleeping medication with alcohol.