What should you know about homeopathic jet lag pills?

Jet lag occurs when the internal body clock is out of step with the local day and night after crossing time zones. Difficulty sleeping at the local bedtime, waking too early, headache and daytime sleepiness can follow. Symptoms often improve as the body adjusts, but the timing varies between people.

A homeopathic label does not show that a product changes circadian timing. Some products may also contain additional ingredients, and combining them with medicines or alcohol can be unhelpful. Check the full label and discuss regular medicines with a clinician or pharmacist.

Before and during travel, plan sleep around the destination time when practical. Seek daylight at suitable local times, keep evening light low when preparing for sleep, and use regular meals and gentle activity to reinforce the new routine.

Avoid driving or safety-sensitive work if you are very sleepy. A Travel Health Consultation can help if you cross many time zones, work irregular shifts, or have a condition that affects sleep. Do not start a sedating product without checking how it may affect alertness.

Seek medical advice if sleep disruption persists after travel, repeatedly affects work or driving, or comes with severe mood change, breathing pauses during sleep, confusion or symptoms that are not typical for you. Urgent help is needed for severe confusion, fainting or a medical emergency.

Ask how to shift your sleep schedule for the route and arrival time, whether any prescribed or over-the-counter product is suitable with your medicines, and when persistent symptoms should be assessed for Insomnia or another sleep problem.