Which medications should patients with sleep apnea avoid due to sedation risk?

People with sleep apnea need to be careful about taking medicines that can make them sleepy. These medicines can make it harder to breathe when sleeping.

Medications to Avoid:

1. Sleep Aids: Many sleep medicines help you fall asleep but can slow down your breathing.
2. Opioids: These are strong pain medicines that can also make breathing slower.
3. Benzodiazepines: These medicines are used to help with anxiety or to relax muscles, but they can also affect breathing.

It's important for people with sleep apnea to talk to their doctors about any medicines they take. Doctors can help find medicines that are safer for people with sleep apnea. Always check with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.