Overview
- Khan made the comments on the No Appointment Necessary podcast in a clip shared on social media that prompted widespread UK coverage.
- He said people should "never, ever" use sleeping tablets, allowing exceptions only after acute events such as bereavement or trauma and for no longer than a week.
- He warned that these drugs can lead to dependence and tolerance, cause next‑day drowsiness, and reduce restorative REM sleep.
- Additional risks highlighted in reporting include falls, rebound insomnia, withdrawal symptoms, and heightened vulnerability in older adults.
- He recommended cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia and clinical assessment over self‑medicating with over‑the‑counter sleep aids, urging people to consult their GP.