Pharmacist Seema Khatri, from Roseway Labs, has issued urgent advice to travellers about taking sleeping tablets before a flight, warning that drug-induced sleep is not the same as natural rest and can leave passengers groggier and more jet-lagged.
Why sleeping pills can be risky on planes
Speaking ahead of last-minute summer holidays, Khatri explained: "People imagine that taking a sleeping pill means they'll wake up refreshed at their destination. But drug-induced sleep is not the same as natural, restorative sleep, and on a plane it can actually leave you groggier and more jet-lagged."
Among the primary worries is circulation, as the specialist emphasised: "When you're sedated you move far less, and that immobility can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Cabins are already dehydrating environments, and sedatives can thicken the blood further, so the two combined aren't a good mix."
Altitude magnifies effects
Cabin pressure can significantly magnify the effects of sleeping tablets. At higher altitudes, oxygen levels drop and, according to Khatri, sedatives may exacerbate drowsiness, confusion or even breathing difficulties as a consequence.
"So what might feel like a mild dose on the ground can hit much harder once you're in the air," she emphasised. Despite many passengers taking sleeping pills to combat jet lag, it often proves counterproductive. Khatri explained: "If you take at the wrong time, your body clock becomes even more confused. Instead of easing into the new time zone, you land disoriented and wired."
She added: "Older travellers, people with breathing conditions like asthma or sleep apnoea, and anyone with circulation problems should steer well clear of sedatives on planes. Even a small dose can hit them harder at altitude and, in some cases, it can become dangerous rather than just uncomfortable."
Safer ways to rest on a flight
Rather than depending on pharmaceuticals, sleep-promoting supplements might be a more sensible choice for travellers. There are various approaches that can be considered following medical consultation.
"We also recommend magnesium glycinate to calm the nervous system, or herbal teas such as chamomile or lemon balm if you just want to relax," Khatri advised. "It's also important to stay well hydrated, as dehydration can make it harder to rest and can worsen jet lag."
Other ways to relax on a flight include wearing an eye mask, using noise-cancelling headphones and steering clear of caffeine before departure. "These options won't put you into an unnatural sleep cycle, so you arrive fresher and safer," she added.
While sleeping tablets may seem like a handy solution for long-haul flights, experts warn they could lead to grogginess, dehydration and heightened health risks. Khatri concluded: "A sleeping pill before take-off may knock you out, but it won't give your body the restorative rest it really needs."
There is no need to battle with sleeplessness but, should you find yourself struggling, make sure you seek advice from a medical professional. Your GP will be well-placed to help with any sleep difficulties you may be facing.
