Have you been feeling unusually tired lately — the kind of fatigue that coffee can't fix and sleep doesn’t seem to cure? You might chalk it up to stress, poor sleep, or just getting older. But here’s something you might not have considered: the very medications you rely on every day could be silently zapping your energy.
5 Common Medications That Might Be Making You Feel Tired
It's a little-known fact that several commonly prescribed (and even over-the-counter) medications list fatigue or drowsiness as a side effect. And often, your body may not immediately show signs — the effects can slowly creep in, leaving you drained without knowing why. So before you book that next energy-boosting IV drip or sign up for a sleep study, it might be worth checking your medicine cabinet first.
Let’s break down five common medications that could be causing your low energy levels — and what you can do about it.
1. Antihistamines (Allergy Meds)
If you’re taking antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or even certain second-generation options like cetirizine (Zyrtec), they could be dulling your alertness. These meds block histamine, a chemical that plays a role in wakefulness, which is why you might feel groggy even hours after taking them. And if you’re using them daily for allergies, that fatigue can build up over time.
Pro tip: Look for “non-drowsy” formulas, but still pay attention to how your body reacts — even some “non-drowsy” versions can cause tiredness in sensitive individuals.
2. Beta-Blockers (Blood Pressure Meds)
Prescribed to treat high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, or even anxiety, beta-blockers like atenolol or metoprolol work by slowing your heart rate. That helps reduce blood pressure — but can also reduce circulation, leaving you feeling sluggish, foggy, or downright exhausted.
Heads up: If you're constantly tired while on beta-blockers, don’t stop cold turkey. Talk to your doctor about possible alternatives or dosage adjustments.
3. Antidepressants (Especially SSRIs and Tricyclics)
Yes, it’s a bit ironic — medications meant to help improve mood can sometimes do the opposite when it comes to energy. SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac) or tricyclics like amitriptyline are known for causing fatigue in some users, particularly in the early weeks of treatment.
Insider tip: Some antidepressants are more stimulating than others. If you’re dragging all day, your doctor might recommend a more energizing option or tweak your timing.
4. Muscle Relaxants
Drugs like cyclobenzaprine or carisoprodol are often prescribed for back pain or injury recovery. They work by calming your muscles — and your central nervous system along with them. The result? A heavy, drowsy sensation that can linger well into the next day.
Watch out: Even taking these before bed doesn’t always solve the issue — many people report “hangover” fatigue the next morning.
5. Sleep Aids & Anxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines)
Ironically, medications like lorazepam (Ativan) or temazepam (Restoril) that are designed to help you sleep or manage anxiety can disrupt your natural energy cycle. While they help you fall asleep, they can affect REM sleep — the most restorative part — leaving you tired and foggy during the day.
What to do: These meds are often intended for short-term use. If you're still relying on them weeks later and feeling exhausted, it might be time to re-evaluate with your healthcare provider.
So, What Now?
If you're taking any of these medications and notice a persistent drop in energy, don’t self-diagnose or stop taking them without professional guidance. Instead, keep a daily journal of your fatigue levels and bring it to your next doctor’s appointment. There might be an alternative medication, a different dosage, or a better time of day to take your meds.