Does Long-Term Use of Sleeping Pills Increase Dementia Risk? What Science Says

Written by Nguyenjessica 

Published on May 23 2025

Many people wonder: does taking sleeping pills long-term increase the risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?

Sleep problems are common, and many turn to medication—but are these pills helping us or harming us?
This article breaks it down with evidence-based insights.

Key Points

Long-term benzodiazepine use is linked to increased dementia risk.

People with a family history should consider safer options with their doctor.

In late-stage dementia, comfort may outweigh long-term risks.

Natural, quality sleep is the best protection for brain health.

Small lifestyle changes can lead to big improvements in sleep and brain health.

What exactly is 40hz therapy?

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Table of content

How Sleep Affects Brain Health?

Sleeping Pills and Dementia Risk: A Comparison of Three Types

Why Are Dementia Patients Still Prescribed High-Risk Drugs?

How to Sleep Well Without Medication?

How Sleep Affects Brain Health?

When we enter deep sleep, the brain switches on a special cleanup system called the glymphatic system. Think of it as the brain’s janitor, clearing out waste like amyloid-beta, which is linked to Alzheimer’s.

 

But if you don’t sleep well for a long time, this system can’t do its job. Waste starts to build up, and that can hurt your memory and thinking. Over time, it may raise the risk of dementia.

 

Getting enough deep sleep is one of the best things you can do for your brain.

Sleeping Pills and Dementia Risk: A Comparison of Three Types

Many people turn to sleeping pills for a better night’s rest. But some types might actually harm your brain over time.

 

Benzodiazepines, like diazepam and lorazepam, carry the highest risk. Studies show that using them regularly and in high doses can raise your chances of getting dementia. They can mess with your memory, slow down brain activity, and interrupt deep sleep. If you're taking these—especially with a family history of dementia—it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about safer options.

 

Barbiturates, such as phenobarbital, aren’t used as often today, but they’re highly addictive and tough on brain health. Best to avoid them if possible.

 

Other sleep aids like non-benzodiazepines, melatonin, and antihistamines haven’t been clearly linked to dementia yet. But that doesn’t mean they’re risk-free. Long-term use still calls for caution.

Sometimes, the best way to sleep better isn’t in a pill bottle.

Why Are Dementia Patients Still Prescribed High-Risk Drugs?

In the middle to late stages of dementia, patients often struggle with serious sleep issues, anxiety, or agitation. At that point, doctors sometimes have to make tough choices.

 

Even though some medications carry long-term risks, the priority shifts to making the patient more comfortable and easing the load on caregivers.

 

That’s why low-dose sleeping pills might be prescribed—to help the patient get some rest and give caregivers a much-needed break. It’s not about ignoring the risks, but about doing what’s best for quality of life in the moment.

How to Sleep Well Without Medication?

You don’t always need pills to sleep better. Simple changes can make a big difference.

 

Start by creating a sleep-friendly space. Use blackout curtains, turn off night lights, and switch to warm lighting in the evening. This helps your body produce melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy.

 

Next, put away your phone before bed. The blue light from screens tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, making it harder to fall asleep.

 

Move more during the day. A brisk walk, light stretching, or some yoga—just 30 minutes daily—can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply.

 

At night, try some relaxation tricks. A warm bath, a bit of meditation, or even just deep breathing can quiet your mind and help you drift off.

 

Also, keep your bedroom cool. Around 68–72°F (20–22°C) is ideal for restful sleep.

 

And if you're using sleep aids, treat them as a short-term fix. The goal is to build healthy habits that help you sleep well for the long run.

 

 

 

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