Record Number of Children Prescribed Sleeping Pills in England
More than one million sleeping pill prescriptions were issued to children in England in 2024, marking a significant increase and raising concerns among healthcare professionals. This represents a surge in the number of under-18s receiving medication to aid sleep, with the total reaching 1,060,009 prescriptions – a first-time high.
Rising Trend in Childhood Sleep Medication
The latest figures from NHS England reveal that over 250,000 individuals under the age of 18 received prescriptions for sleep-related drugs in 2024. This is an increase of more than 100,000 prescriptions since 2020, and a rise of 400,000 prescriptions overall. Approximately 20,000 prescriptions are now being issued to children each week.
Age Groups Most Affected
Data indicates that 12-year-olds are the age group most commonly prescribed sleeping pills. Alarmingly, 119,000 prescriptions were written for children still in primary school.
Medical Guidance and Concerns
Medical guidelines state that hypnotics – including sedating antihistamines and melatonin treatments – should only be used for the short-term relief of conditions like night terrors or sleepwalking in children and adolescents. Experts are increasingly concerned about the growing trend, linking it to factors such as anxiety, mental health pressures, and increased screen time.
Expert Perspectives
Dr. Susie Davies, GP and founder of PAPAYA (Parents Against Phone Addiction in Young Adolescents), emphasized the alarming rise in insomnia among children. She stated the need to examine potential drivers, particularly the role of screen use in disrupting sleep patterns. NHS England data supports the growing recognition of sleep disorders in young people.
Vicki Beevers, chief executive of The Sleep Charity, described the data as “deeply concerning.” She highlighted that while medication may have a place in specific circumstances under specialist guidance, clinical guidance advises against the routine use of hypnotics for children. Beevers advocates for greater investment in early intervention, parent education, and accessible behavioral sleep support to address sleep difficulties before they escalate to the point where medication is considered the only option.
The Importance of Behavioral Strategies
Experts emphasize that sleep is a behavioral and biological process. Many children benefit most from consistent routines, supportive bedtime strategies, managing light and screen exposure, and addressing underlying emotional wellbeing. NHS England’s annual report and accounts 2024 to 2025 details the ongoing challenges within the healthcare system, indirectly highlighting the need for preventative measures like improved sleep support.
Looking Ahead
The increasing reliance on sleeping pills for children underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of sleep disturbances in young people. This includes promoting healthy sleep habits, addressing mental health concerns, and reducing excessive screen time. Further research and investment in accessible sleep support services are crucial to ensure the wellbeing of future generations.