Emerging research suggests that certain sleep aids, particularly those that enhance deep sleep, might help reduce the accumulation of toxic tau proteins in the brain, a key driver of Alzheimer’s disease and other tauopathies. However, the evidence is still preliminary, and not all sleeping pills are equal in this potential benefit.

The Link Between Sleep, Tau, and Alzheimer’s

1. Tau Buildup and Poor Sleep
   • During deep (slow-wave) sleep, the brain’s glymphatic system clears waste, including tau and beta-amyloid.
   • Chronic poor sleep disrupts this process, allowing tau to accumulate and spread.
2. Sleep Medications Under Investigation
   • Suvorexant (Belsomra): A 2023 Annals of Neurology study found this orexin receptor antagonist (a class of sleep drug) reduced tau and amyloid in mice and showed modest benefits in early human trials.
   • Melatonin: Some studies suggest it may help with sleep quality and tau clearance, but human data is mixed.
   • Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam) & Z-drugs (e.g., zolpidem): These may worsen cognitive decline long-term and are not recommended for tau prevention.

Could Sleeping Pills Help?

• Potentially, if they improve deep sleep without disrupting natural sleep architecture.
• Suvorexant is the most promising candidate, but more research is needed.
• Caution: Many sleep medications (e.g., sedatives) can impair memory or increase fall risk in older adults.

Better Alternatives for Tau Prevention

1. Natural Deep Sleep Boosters
   • Exercise, mindfulness, and sleep hygiene may enhance slow-wave sleep without drugs.
2. CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia)
   • The gold-standard, drug-free treatment for chronic sleep issues.
3. Emerging Therapies
   • Acoustic stimulation (e.g., devices that enhance slow-wave sleep) are being tested for tau clearance.

Reference:

https://www.sciencealert.com/a-common-sleeping-pill-could-reduce-buildup-of-alzheimers-proteins-study-finds

https://newatlas.com/brain/alzheimers-dementia/alzheimers-hope-sleep-aid-blocks-up-to-40-more-harmful-tau-deposits

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/could-a-sleeping-pill-help-prevent-toxic-tau-buildup-in-the-brain

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/sleep-disorder