Medicines and products for snoring

There is no tablet that cures snoring. Products can help specific causes, and medical devices or procedures are used when snoring is part of sleep apnea or comes from a structural blockage.

For nasal blockage

• Saline sprays and rinses
• Steroid nasal sprays for allergy-related blockage, on a doctor's advice
• Antihistamines for allergy
• Short courses of decongestant sprays only as directed; longer use can worsen blockage
• Nasal dilator strips or internal nasal dilators, which open the nostrils and help some people

Devices

• Mandibular advancement devices (mouthpieces fitted by a dentist) move the lower jaw forward and can reduce snoring and mild sleep apnea.
• CPAP machines are the main treatment when snoring is part of obstructive sleep apnea.

Surgery Considered when a clear blockage exists: correction of a deviated septum, removal of polyps, tonsil or adenoid removal (common in children), or procedures on the soft palate. Suitability is decided by an ENT specialist.

Products to be careful with

• "Anti-snore" sprays, oils, magnets and herbal pills sold online lack good evidence.
• Sedatives and sleeping pills can worsen snoring and apnea.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Traditional nasal oils (nasya) and herbs are used for congestion, but evidence is limited and they do not treat sleep apnea.

When to see a doctor Before using regular medicines, and always if snoring comes with pauses, gasping or daytime sleepiness. Call 112 for breathlessness or chest pain.

Remember Treat the cause: nasal sprays for allergy, dental devices or CPAP when needed. There is no proven snoring pill.