Don't knock yourself out. As for taking sleeping pills on a plane, Oexman does not advise it. With pills like Ambien, people may find themselves sleepwalking or acting erratically with no knowledge. However, melatonin pills — especially for travelers crossing multiple time zones — could be a helpful aid.

Taking a sleeping pill on an international flight can be a double-edged sword and should be approached with caution. On the positive side, it can help you get essential rest during a 10+ hour journey, potentially helping you "reset" your internal clock and mitigate jet lag upon arrival. However, the risks are significant: in the event of an emergency or evacuation, being heavily sedated can be life-threatening as you may be unable to react quickly or follow crew instructions. Additionally, sleeping pills can increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) because you remain immobile for longer periods, and they can sometimes cause "complex sleep behaviors" like sleepwalking in a confined cabin. In 2026, many doctors suggest trying natural alternatives first, such as Melatonin, or using a light sedative only if you have tested it at home first to see how your body reacts. If you do take one, wait until the plane has reached cruising altitude and the meal service is over to ensure you have a clear 6-to-8-hour window of undisturbed rest before landing.