Schlafmittel

sleeping pill

noun SHLAHF-mit-tel Rare

Also means

sedative hypnotic

Usage Note

Schlafmittel is the general term for medication that induces sleep, including benzodiazepines and Z-drugs. They are prescription-only in Germany for stronger preparations. Long-term use is discouraged due to risk of dependence (Abhängigkeit) and tolerance. Also called Hypnotikum in medical language.

Examples

"Der Arzt riet ihr von dauerhafter Einnahme von Schlafmitteln ab."

Natural Translation

The doctor advised her against taking sleeping pills permanently.

Literal Translation

The doctor advised her from permanent intake of sleeping pills off.

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