OTC sleep aids are sold in several forms: caplets/tablets, softgels, liquids, gummies, and powder drink mixes.
Sleep-aid labels commonly list age recommendations such as “for children 4 years and up,” “for ages 12 and up,” or “for adults 18 years and up.”
Common active ingredients include the antihistamine diphenhydramine HCl, melatonin, and various calming botanicals or minerals such as chamomile, magnesium, and GABA.
Labels provide a serving size and timing instructions. Examples include taking one gummy about 30 minutes before bedtime for children, starting with one softgel (up to two) about 30 minutes before bed for adults, and measured doses for liquid products.
Common calming additives are minerals and amino acids (magnesium, GABA, L‑theanine), adaptogens (ashwagandha), and botanicals such as chamomile, lemon balm, lavender, passionflower, valerian root, and tart cherry.
In these results, child-directed sleep aids are primarily gummies labeled for children ages 4 and up.
Package counts range from single-unit liquid bottles (quantity 1) up to 100-count bottles. Other common counts shown include 10, 60, and 90.
