Prevalence and Factors Associated with The Use of Over-the-counter Sleep Aids Among Training Residents at King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction: Sleep quality is a key factor in the overall health and performance of healthcare professionals, especially medical residents, whose irregular schedules and high-stress levels frequently result in poor sleep and dependence on over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids. This study examined the prevalence of OTC sleep aid usage, contributing factors, and effects on sleep quality. Methods : A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical residents at King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The data were collected using a validated self-administered questionnaire. Sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Demographic characteristics and data related to the use of OTC sleep aids were also collected. Results : The study involved 329 residents, 47.4% of whom reported using OTC sleep aids primarily on an as-needed basis (76.8%). The mean PSQI score for all participants was 8.16 ± 3.57, indicating generally poor sleep quality. Sleep quality was significantly worse among OTC sleep aid users, as shown by higher global PSQI scores compared to non-users (9.15 ± 3.61 vs. 7.28 ± 3.29, respectively, p < 0.001). Surgical residents had the highest prevalence of OTC sleep aid use (57.1%) and demonstrated poorer sleep quality (PSQI 9.20 ± 3.73) compared to medical residents (46.8%, PSQI: 7.97 ± 3.51, p = 0.02). Work-related demands were the most common reason for using sleep aids (57.24%), followed by resetting circadian rhythms (48.03%) and emotional stress (30.92%). Side effects were reported by 38.4% of users, with fatigue and drowsiness being the most frequent complaints. Conclusion : The use of OTC sleep aids was highly prevalent among medical residents. These results suggest the need for interventions to improve residents' sleep quality and reduce reliance on OTC sleep aids. Implementing work schedule reforms, providing non-pharmacological solutions, and promoting sleep hygiene education are essential to address the causes of sleep disturbances.