Stress and Anxiety

Anxiety and sleep medicines: what we carry and how they differ

The medicines in this category are not one class and do not behave alike. Etizolam, a thienodiazepine closely related to the benzodiazepines, is stocked at 0.25MG, 0.5MG and 1MG. The Z-drugs zopiclone at 7.5MG and eszopiclone at 2MG and 3MG are used for sleep. Buspirone, at 5MG and 10MG, works quite differently: it acts on serotonin receptors, takes weeks rather than minutes, and does not cause dependence. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with sedative and anxiolytic effects. Melatonin, stocked at 3MG, 5MG and 10MG, acts on sleep timing rather than sedation.

Fast-acting against slow-acting

That distinction between fast and slow is the one worth carrying away. Etizolam and the Z-drugs work within the hour, which makes them effective and also makes them habit-forming. Tolerance can develop within weeks of regular use, and stopping abruptly after a sustained run can cause withdrawal that includes rebound insomnia, agitation and, rarely, seizures. Any reduction after regular use is tapered rather than stopped outright, and that is worth planning with a doctor before you start rather than after.

Why they combine badly with alcohol and opioids

They also combine badly with alcohol, with opioids and with other sedating medicines, and that combination accounts for much of the serious harm associated with them. Next-morning impairment affects driving more than people expect.

Melatonin is a different proposition

Melatonin is a different proposition: it works best for shifting a body clock rather than for sedation, and is typically taken a set period before the intended sleep time rather than at the moment of going to bed.

Habits that reduce how much you need

Sleep hygiene sounds like a platitude until it is the thing that lets a short course stay short: a consistent wake time, a dark and cool room, and keeping screens and caffeine away from the evening all do measurable work, and none of them build tolerance.

Sourcing, expiry dates and delivery

Every listing shows the molecule, the strength and the pack size, with the guaranteed minimum expiry date displayed before purchase. All stock ships from India through licensed distributors.