Sleeping Pills

• According to the Mayo Clinic, sleeping pills such as Ambien, Lunesta and other drugs can help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. These drugs can cause side effects that include excessive drowsiness, agitation and impaired thinking.
  
  

Antidepressants

• Doctors may prescribe antidepressants that have a sedative effect to patients who suffer from depression and insomnia, according to the Mayo Clinic.
  
  

Antihistamines

• As reported by the Mayo Clinic, over-the-counter sleeping aids can help people become drowsy. These products may contain antihistamines that can reduce sleep quality.
  
  

Alternative Medicine

• Valerian root and melatonin are natural supplements that are marketed as sleep aids, as reported by the Mayo Clinic. Patients should discuss the appropriateness of natural remedies with their doctors.
  
  

Lifestyle

• According to the Mayo Clinic, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, taking a warm bath in the evening and limiting daytime naps can improve sleep.