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Sleep Aids

Nearly all people suffer from the inability to fall and stay asleep at some time in their lives. It has been estimated that three-fourths of people suffer from sleeplessness on a regular basis for a long period of time, at least three months. Sometimes people have no problem falling or staying asleep but the quality of the sleep is so poor that they wake up feeling unrested.

The effects from lack of restful sleep can affect your relationships, health and even your career if left unchecked. Many prescription medications are available to treat insomnia. However the side effects associated with these medications may prove as harmful as not getting enough high-quality sleep. Most of these medications are made with narcotics and can be habit-forming and highly addictive, leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. People who take them often complain of drowsiness or sluggishness the next day. In a few cases the side effects can include headaches, dizziness, sore throats and muscle pain. Follows is a summary of these dangers in greater details in order to prove the need to find a better alternative to harmful prescription sleep aids.

The most harmful side effect common with prescription sleep aids is the addictive nature of the narcotics used in these drugs. Very quickly someone who takes these prescription medications for insomnia can find themselves dependant on them for any sleep at all. OTC medications have similar effects but the most dangerous are the sleep aids prescribed by doctors. The only way to avoid the side effect of dependency is to avoid using these prescription sleep aids.

Another problem with prescription sleep aids is that they are often created using very strong drug formulas. In order to try and ensure the patient a full night's sleep, these medications are made strong enough to last for at least eight or nine hours at a time. Sometimes it takes a while for the sleepiness that these drugs cause to wear off, leaving you tired and sluggish in the morning. It can take many hours after waking for someone who takes prescription sleep aids to feel fully awake.

Eventually you will want to stop taking a prescription sleep medication to help you sleep. Unfortunately, due to the addictive narcotics, this can be difficult and lead to serious withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal symptoms can include:

Headaches
rebound insomnia
spells of dizziness

For this reason, the suggested dose of prescription sleep aids is usually very small although it may be increased as tolerance to the drugs becomes higher.

Due to the dangerous nature of prescription sleep aids, it is in your best interest to research natural over-the-counter, or OTC, alternatives that do not contain addictive ingredients and have no past history of habit forming in people who have taken the medication long term. There are also lifestyle changes that may help with sleeplessness that should be explored before turning to drugs of any kind. Changes in diet and exercise habits may be enough to allow you to get the high-quality full night's sleep that you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. QUESTION:
    Sleep aids????
    I have had pretty severe insomnia for the past 4 nights and I have to get sleep tonight or I am going to lose it. Have you taken any over the counter sleep aids and what was your experience with them? I would prefer not to feel groggy in the morning but I have to get sleep somehow! Please help me out! Ive never had problem like this before!

    • ANSWER:
      Every once in a while I have a heck of a time getting to sleep it's just horrible. I don't like to take anything unless I have to but I do find Tylenol PM works great. 2 pills 1 hour before bedtime & I fall right off to sleep. No side effects what so ever. Wake up feeling like I have had a good night sleep. Good luck to you. Sweet dreams.

  2. QUESTION:
    What are some over the counter sleep aids I could use to help me fall asleep at night?
    For the last few months I have been having extreme difficulty falling asleep. I just don't get tired until nearly 7 in the morning. I have no trouble sleeping once I get to sleep; It's getting to sleep that's the problem. I am looking for any over the counter sleep aids that can help me simply become much more tired much earlier in the night. Does anyone have any suggestions?

    What would need to be done to get prescription sleep aids?

    Any information would be appreciated.

    • ANSWER:
      try to sleep early night
      use fruits specially orange
      use folic acid containing foods specially vegetable and fruits
      be happy

  3. QUESTION:
    Are there any sleep aids that are safe to use during the first trimester?
    I'm exhausted but I can't sleep at night...I've been getting four hours a night, not counting the times I wake up in the middle of the nights. Are any OTC or prescription sleep aids safe to use? What other remedies would solve my problem?

    *I've had sleeping problems for about 8 years now, but have been sleeping well regularly since May. Now, it seems to be a problem again.

    • ANSWER:
      check with your OB but most of them will agree that a low dose of benedryl is okay to take in the first trimester. I know for a fact that ambien is a no-no in the first trimester...LOL I was in the same situation..insomniac in misery since my son was born 4 years ago...getting through this recent pregnancy was miserable...no sleep for 9 months. For what it's worth I've been sleeping great since my daughter was born 2 weeks ago!

  4. QUESTION:
    Do sleep aids replenish your body the way REM sleep does, because i learned they make you skip REM?
    In school, i learned that sleep aids made you skip REM sleep, so it would have been better to go with alternative less medicated methods to sleep. I've heard people though say that, on sleep aids they wake up replenished just the same as if they had their REM sleep. So was the information outdate, or possibly something overlooked?

    • ANSWER:
      It depends on the sleep aid. I prefer Valerian root pills. They are a natural supplement, and they put me into a deep deep REM. I also don't wake up all groggy, but it is harder to pull me out of sleep. I can't wake up to an alarm. They give you extremely vivid dreams they are really neat.

  5. QUESTION:
    Can taking sleep aids at night slow down your weight loss progress?
    When I cannot sleep due to aches and pains I take sleep aids. I'm trying to lose 41 pounds (I have lost 21 pounds so far) and I wonder if you take sleep aids if it throws off your metabolism.

    • ANSWER:
      it could depending on the sleep pill. Some make you retain water or lower your metabolism.
      You might try velarian root (natural herb) for a few days instead of sleeping pills. Velarian root doesn't knock you out like sleeping pills its a slow drowsey so if you go to bed at 10 then you need to take them around 8ish.

  6. QUESTION:
    What is the best over the Countier sleep aids?
    I have a boyfriend who snores very bad, only stay with him durning the weekends but I can never sleep and then Im tired all weekend. I have used tylenol sleep aid and it does not work for me. Until he gets help for it sleep aids are my only choice. Can anyone help me find something?

    • ANSWER:
      get him the breathing strip and you should try a Homeopathic Remedy called Neurexan it's made by Heel.
      It's non habit forming and easy on the liver.

  7. QUESTION:
    What OTC sleep aids are best for short periods of use?
    I'll be taking a trip on Sunday and I will be staying in a hotel. I find it extremely difficult to sleep in hotels so I am thinking of getting a sleep aid to help me. I'll only need to take it for two days. What are some good OTC sleep aids that could help me out? Once again, I only need to take it for TWO DAYS.

    • ANSWER:
      I am just going to tell you my remedy. I buy Chamomile tea and that helps me sleep quick. TAZO has one. The Calm tea. You can get it at the Supermarket. And they also carry other brands of Chamomile tea. I have also used Calms pills which I buy at GNC usually. They also help you fall asleep without making you groggy the next day. Some pharmacies carry it, but not all of them. Those are good, also. I hoped this helped.

  8. QUESTION:
    What happens if you take 4 ibuprofen and 2 sleep aids within the same hour?
    I took 4 ibuprofen then about 45 minutes later i took some night time sleep aids, is that dangerous at all?

    • ANSWER:
      Nope that's fine. Make sure you are following the instructions on the bottles, don't take more than you are supposed to. They will not interact with each other.

  9. QUESTION:
    Does anyone here think that over the counter sleep aids work?
    I have never tried unisom, simply sleep, or some other sleep aids but was curious as to how well or if they even worked at all. Ambien and those other perscriptions are exspensive so I was thinking of other options.

    • ANSWER:
      There are many reasons that you cannot fall asleep. The main reason is there is something in your mind keeps you awake.
      Medications only helps to certain point. When you cannot fall asleep. Right down what is in mind. That's the thing which bothers you. Face the problem and solve it is the only way to deal with. Medication does not help that much.

  10. QUESTION:
    Do you think Heath Ledger's death will a least raise awareness of the dangers of sleep aids?
    The use of sleeping pills has skyrocketed in the last few years. More people are taking prescription and OTC sleep aids. Don't you think at least his death at a young age will create awareness for others and possibly save lives?

    • ANSWER:
      Before you use that as a jumping point against sleeping aids, I'd wait until the actual cause of his death is found. Just because they found sleeping pills in his room isn't direct evidence that it was what killed him. The poor guy hasn't even been dead for 24 hours yet: give them some time to perform an autopsy.

  11. QUESTION:
    Is it safe to take 3 or 4 sleep aids?
    I have some over the counter sleep aid and the recommend 2 usually do nothing. Is it okay to take 3 or 4? They're just cheap equate sleep aids, nothing prescription.

    • ANSWER:
      i have taken 3 and i was fine
      but i think its best to go with what it tells you on the bottle
      3 is fine i guess though just not over that

  12. QUESTION:
    How come when I take sleep aids, I get so anxious?
    I get super tired, but also very anxious, and sometimes I find it hard to sleep, even though I am so tired.
    Also, when I am in bed and under the influence of sleep aids, I ALWAYS have to sleep in the fetal position or else my legs will tingle and feel weird. (I take prescription Seroquel.)

    What's an explaination for this?
    PS- They aren't prescribed to me.

    • ANSWER:
      My suggestion is switch pills. Seroquel could be mixing with a chemical in your body and starting to clash. I took ambien sleep aid and was litterly addicted until i became pregnant. Later, I winged myself off to tylenol pm. My doctor says there is such a thing as a insomniac, and there are pills for it to help you relax.

  13. QUESTION:
    Could sleep aids be causing what seems to be a slowing of reaction and thinking?
    I take Diphenhydramine for sleepless nights and I took it last night. This morning I woke up and felt groggy in my mind. It was hard to wake up and I feel like I'm not functioning as well as I usually do. Could sleep aids be causing me real trouble? I try not to use them unless I have to, and I do sometimes have to. Help!

    • ANSWER:
      They have come a long way since diphenhydramine. Sleep aids are more gentle now and more forgiving the next day.Ambien lets me sleep and wake up without a "hangover".
      Usually what happened to me was by the time I realized it was going to be a sleepless night and take the benadryl it would still be in my system when i got up. Making me tired with a detached feeling.

  14. QUESTION:
    what are some treatments of insomnia besides sleep aids?
    I have already taken all the sleep medications there is. Im thinking of a sleep clinic but I heard if you have insomnia they just give you a sleep aid.

    • ANSWER:
      You should try brainwave entrainment. I had long-term, crushing insomnia for years and tried all the pills and herbs but they just didn't fix it. Brainwave entrainment uses ambient music tracks to lull your brain into producing the right brainwaves for sleep. People are right when they say you should change your lifestyle and this is part of that, because using it for a while 're-trains' your brain. At this point your brain is probably conditioned not to fall asleep, so you'll have to recondition it.

      There are reviews for several options for this-one of them free-at the blog listed below.

  15. QUESTION:
    i am fighting an addiction to opiates and i am having trouble sleeping, what sort of sleep aids could i use?
    i have always had trouble sleeping but it is even worse now that i am trying to get clean. the lack of sleep is making it very hard for me to stay clean and it is very frustrating!! i know doctors dont like to give people like me sleep aids but i fear if i dont get something to help me i am going to falter. if anyone knows of a non-habit forming sleep aid i would love to know about it. nothing seems to work!

    • ANSWER:
      This is a question I have answered many times in my practice as an addiction counselor, but the sad part is, the best method varies with each individual.
      First, I want to tell you that seeking help through ANY source is a positive step, and I commend you for trying to cope with these stressors that you have identified as relapse triggers.
      Here's how I break it down:
      1. Understand that your brain chemistry is changing, trying to return to normal. Abstinence from ALL mood altering chemicals, including caffeine and nicotine, will speed that process. (Sorry, benadryl is a mood altering chemical.)
      2. Be patient with your body and brain. You've put them through hell. They WILL recover, but in their own time.
      3. Exercise is good, in moderation. Google Search "John Ratey, M.D." He recently published a book called "Spark" that has an excellent chapter on addiction. Follow his advice to wear out your body and have it ready for sleep when time comes.
      4. Melatonin has worked well for some of my clients, but remember, everyone's results will vary, and it usually takes at least two weeks of taking the supplement daily before it begins to take effect.
      5. If you have access to health care, ask your doctor about Trazodone. I've seen recovering alcoholics use it as a sleep aid before, but I AM NOT A DOCTOR. Again, ask your physician. Trazodone is available by prescription only.
      6. Meditation can, if practiced consistently, reduce anxiety, increase focus, and make sleeping easier. I have seen the Zen tradition known as Vipassina change lives, including my own.
      The last and, in my opinion best advice I can give, is to find a 12-Step group. Narcotics Anonymous has web sites for most major metropolitan areas, and their sites all have lists of meetings.
      I hope this helps.

  16. QUESTION:
    How to fall asleep with an overly troubled mind, stress, and with out over the counter sleep aids.?
    I have a hard time falling asleep at night, because My mind is overly troubled, I have to deal with alot of stress, And Over-the-counter Sleep aids never work for me.. I don't drink much caffeine, And I am limited on my exercise by my Asthma.. And I have Dust and cat allergies... which there is alot of both here.. Any Ideas? Please help me out!

    • ANSWER:
      I, too, had this problem; I work 16 hour night shifts and I had difficulties shutting off my head and leaving my work behind. I actually found an OTC sleep aid that worked and didn't cause any problems with my asthma, residual grogginess or other side effects. It's generic name is doxylamine succinate and it's an antihistamine, found at Wal-Mart for only a few dollars a box. I urge you to try this before you totally give up.
      Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark and comfortable. Don't read or watch tv in bed, anything you do in bed besides what's supposed to be done can trick your brain into thinking that it needs to focus on something else than sleep at that particular time. Other than that, sit in a quiet room and read a book. It may also help if you take a warm bath, listen to music or drink a soothing, warm drink of your choice. Don't watch tv or surf the net until you're sleepy, it's too consuming. Make sure that everything is done for the day and the only thing left is for you to go to bed. Read until you can barely hold your eyes open and then go to bed!
      I found this to be the only thing to shut my brain off when I needed to sleep-the stress of work and the hours that I work shifted my focus from sleeping.
      I hope I've helped and that you find relief soon, God bless.

  17. QUESTION:
    What are the effects going to be on a woman's child if she took sleep-aids before discovering she was pregnant?
    I may or may not be pregnant (if so, probably around 6 weeks), and I am worried because I've used a sleep-aid (melatonin) at least once or twice a week during these last 6 weeks. If I am pregnant, have I caused my child a lot of harm?

    • ANSWER:
      Melatonin is something your body produces naturally but decreases with age. The baby will be fine.

  18. QUESTION:
    Do you know of any sleep aids that won't interfere with sleep quality?
    Are there any sleep aids that won't interfere with sleep quality ?
    and that will not make you feel drowsy/disoriented the next morning?

    • ANSWER:
      Melatonin, its a natural supplement that can be bought at stores like GNC. just take it 30 mins prior to bedtime and it should help you fall asleep faster. there is no drowiness the next morning either.

  19. QUESTION:
    why do people take nyquil to sleep if over the counter sleep aids are available?
    I've always wondered why someone would drink gross Nyquil, when you can buy over the counter sleep aids just about anywhere. I know this is a weird question, but hey it's not like no ones asked a weird question here before...
    Oh, and I'm not talking about when people are actually sick.

    • ANSWER:
      The average over the counter sleep aid is actually just benadryl. So, you are actually taking an anti-histamine to fall asleep.

  20. QUESTION:
    Are there any over the counter sleep aids?
    And what do you think of them - safe?

    What is the best over the counter sleeping aid medicine? I'm having sleep disorder maybe due to stress...

    ALSO - any over the counter aids for ANXIETY?
    DEPENDENCY risks??
    Okay, thanks, I'm actually not really that interested in using medication. I like the all natural approach.

    • ANSWER:
      Go to a Whole Foods grocery store and get a little bottle of something called Rescue Remedy. It is a combination of a whole bunch of herbs. My sister showed it to me. The vet recommended it to her to use for her cat, when she had a cat that "talked" waay too much. The stuff is for humans, but the vet recommended it for the cat. Sure enough, it calmed the cat down some. (The cat was a rescue and my sis was only a temp. home).

      Then I found out that the kennel where I board my dogs, also uses Rescue Remedy in the pet water, to keep all the dogs and cats calm.

      SO, my sis tried it, since she also has sleep disorders and has trouble sleeping. She puts about 4 drops into a small glass of water and drinks it, and it just lets her relax and go to sleep.

      Then I tried it (for me and my cats who fight to be the alpha). It didn't work on my cats so much. They still bicker with each other. But it has helped me to relax and sleep deeply enough to feel rested in the morning.

      1 bottle is about 16 dollars... but it lasts a long time. It is a bunch of herbs (and I am not against regular OTC meds, but I do like to steer clear of "sleeping pills").

  21. QUESTION:
    How many sleep aids can I take?
    I have this natural sleep aid pill. On the box it says that I can only take one pill, but one pill doesn´t help me sleep. Can I take one more?
    I was wondering if I could take a painkiller with the sleeping aid. (if I take 2 sleeping aid pills)

    • ANSWER:
      Try taking two and drink one and drink a glass of water, then drink the other. Don't take a painkiller because the result might be in a slight overdose. Some chemicals or active elements might not balance each other out in your body and one might have a stronger effect of that medicine.

  22. QUESTION:
    What is it in milk that aids sleep?
    That relaxes and aids sleep when warmed and drunk before bed? Is it melatonin?

    I've posted this in Biology category too.
    Huh? Does eating turkey before bed help you to sleep too then?

    • ANSWER:
      Tryptophan the same thing that is in turkey.

  23. QUESTION:
    Illegal to buy non-prescription sleep aids under the age of 18?
    Is it illegal to buy non-prescription sleep aids in New Jersey under the age of 18?

    • ANSWER:
      Yeah i'm pretty sure it is, because accidental overdose could cause death. If you have trouble sleeping talk to your parents, if it's a serious problem they should listen.

  24. QUESTION:
    Are there any problems with long term use of over the counter sleep aids?
    I know someone that has trouble sleeping at night and they found an over the counter sleep aid that they really like that help them sleep and they were wondering if long term use of it would cause problems for them.

    • ANSWER:
      Diphenhydramine is the most common OTC sleep aid medication - its sold under dozens of brand names, but you most likely know it better as Benedryl - the allergy medication....its an antihistamine.

      And people have been known to take it daily for years....

  25. QUESTION:
    What are the best sleep aids? prescribed or over the counter?
    I've been having trouble falling asleep but never chose to do anything about it. I wanted to know if Ambien or Lunesta is the way to go. I hear these drugs might have some serious side effects. If anyone knows the best one to take with the least side effects that would be great. Also if anyone knows of any otc sleep aids..Ive tried nyquil a couple times and seemed to work only some of the time.
    Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Benadryl or Tylenol PM work for me!!

  26. QUESTION:
    What complications can OTC sleep aids cause for people on prescription medication?
    I am thinking of taking an over-the-counter sleep aid, but I have a daily prescription of Sulfasalazine. I previously took small doses of Lorazepam under medical supervision for insomnia, and I didn't have any problems with that. What kind of complications, if any, can I expect if I take an OTC sleep aid with my prescription?

    • ANSWER:
      If the only medication you are taking is sulfasalazine an OTC sleep medication (diphenhydramine/benadryl)should have no interaction. If you are not having any pain, plain old benadryl should do the trick. Make sure you have several hours to sleep or you might feel fuzzy/hung over. I am assuming no other med conditions/allergies....good luck.

  27. QUESTION:
    Can I take sleep aids while on Lexapro?
    I just started taking Lexapro for depression and anxiety. I was wondering if I could take herbal sleep aids to help sleep at night such as melatonin. Or possibly Tylenol 'Simply Sleep'.

    • ANSWER:
      I am taking Lexapro. I beleive the instructions said that any sleep aids you want to take have to be allowed by your doctor. The risk of the two interfering is great. You could make your depression, or your mania, worse.
      You might want to try my wonder drug. It's called exercise, it works, and is not forbidden by any drug.

  28. QUESTION:
    How can I go to sleep without using sleep aids?
    For the last year, I have used Tylenol PM and Nyquil to help me go to sleep and I am trying to refrain from using sleep aids to go to sleep now. The only problem is that my body is having a hard time getting back to sleep without using some sleep aid. I know that it is not healthy to abuse the over-the-counter products but I just simply do not know how to train my body to go to sleep naturally now. Does anyone here have advice to give regarding this? Thank you!

    • ANSWER:
      The best advice is to go see a doctor and find out ways to get sleep without the help of sleep aids.
      Here is a website with tips for a better night's sleep without having to worry about sleep aids to get the night of sleep you are in need of.

  29. QUESTION:
    Can over the counter sleep aids raise your heart rate?
    I realize there is nothing over the counter to slow down an elevated heart rate, which is what is actually realy needed. However, if i gave my boyfriend a benadryl sllep aid, is this going to further increase his heart rate?

    He is having problems sleeping while coming off of opiates prescribed for a back injury. anyhelp is appreciated.

    • ANSWER:

  30. QUESTION:
    what is the danger of taking sleep aids for reasons other than sleeping?
    I took a sleep aid called Alteril, to try to relax for the day. i ended up taking some xanax along with it.. and when it came to bedtime at around 1 in the morning, i wasnt tired at all. so i took 2 benedryl and still was not tired.

    Im feeling very insecure right now. i feel like ive harmed my body. please help me out

    • ANSWER:
      Let this be a lesson to you - drugs are not the answer, and although doctors like to hand them out like candy, they all too often don't help. You took the wrong drugs for the wrong reason, and now you are paying the price. The good news is that you didn't take enough to hurt you, and they will wear off quickly.

      You need to find a doctor that can help you without just shoving drugs down your throat. Drugs do not cure insomnia or anxiety, they only make it worse. You do NOT want to see an MD - you want to see a psychologist, not an MD, not a "counselor", not a psychiatrist. Go see a psychologist, as they are the ones most trained in anxiety and sleep disorders, and they are the ones that can help you without just shoving drugs down your throat.

      Go to your local library and you will find some very good books on anxiety and sleep problems. They will teach you what causes it, and most importantly how to deal with it, live with it, overcome it, and what drugs to use if you need drugs at all. I’ve visited with counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, and all of them know some, but I found a couple of books from the library to be more comprehensive and have more information than any one therapist or doctor that I’ve ever visited. A lot of anxiety disorders and sleep problems can be overcome without drugs if you know how to do it.

  31. QUESTION:
    What is the difference between the two sleep aids Diphenhydramine Citrate and Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride?
    The Diphenhydramine Citrate can be found in Excedrin and the Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride can be found in Tylonal's Simply Sleep. What is the difference in the two ingredients?
    **Just to clarify, the ingredient is in Excedrin PM, not regular Excedrin.

    • ANSWER:
      The active ingredient in both sleep aids is diphenhydramine.
      The second part (either hydrochloride or citrate) does not make any difference in the effectiveness of this drug, it may only affect its physical properties, such as solubility. Another words, from a user's perspective it is the same drug.
      38mg of Diphenhydramine citrate is equivalent to 25mg of Diphenhydramine hydrochloride.

      Bo

      http://www.the-sleep-zone.com

  32. QUESTION:
    Do gas stations sell sleep aids of any kind?
    I have to get up at 5:45 AM tomorrow morning and I woke up at 11:00 AM this morning so obviously I'm going to need something to knock me out and put me to sleep. I have to ride a bike, because I don't have a car, so the closest place is a gas station, and I want to know if anyone knows if a gas station normally sells NyQuil or any other kind of sleep aid? It's a Presto, a rather large station.

    • ANSWER:
      Call the station and ask.

  33. QUESTION:
    Whats the danger of using sleep aids for reasons other than sleeping?
    I took a sleep aid called Alteril, to try to relax for the day. i ended up taking some xanax along with it.. and when it came to bedtime at around 1 in the morning, i wasnt tired at all. so i took 2 benedryl and still was not tired.

    Im feeling very insecure right now. i feel like ive harmed my body. please help me out

    • ANSWER:
      Its a vry dangerous thing,it will kill the beneficial bacterias in ur body when u might need it in future

  34. QUESTION:
    What kind of non-perscription sleep aids have you found to work well?
    I can't get to sleep, and since I'm away at college, I can't just stop at my doctor's and get some sleeping pills. Does anyone know of some pills that I can pick up at Meijer or something that'll help me sleep?

    • ANSWER:
      Kava Kava
      Valerian Root (tea)
      Chamomile tea (or soak in bath)
      Warm Milk (yes it works)
      Exercise

      And if you are in college, read your history or economics book. Always works.

  35. QUESTION:
    Do sleep aids disqualify someone from the ROTC?
    Do sleep aids, such as Lunesta disquallify someone from an ROTC scholarship? It is used only when needed and not everyday.
    Thanks for the response from Mrsjvb ...can you point me to some documentation that states this disqualifier or disqualifiers?

    • ANSWER:
      all prescribed drugs r(other than Birth control) require a waiver.

      and yes sleep aids are a DQ.

  36. QUESTION:
    What is the best over the counter sleep aids?
    I bought these pills called Rapid Sleep Pm from Wal Mart and I tell you, they are terrible!!! Don't ever buy these pills.

    • ANSWER:
      There is this stuff called Melatonin. It's nice because you basically take it, lay down, and you will gradually drift into sleep.

      It doesn't just knock you out. lol.

  37. QUESTION:
    What are some good alternative sleep aids?
    I hear valerian root is good, and chamomile, who has experience with these ,and what works good?
    I have chronic sleep problems, complex apneoa, I use a v-pap mask and take ambien every night.
    I would like to move on to something else.
    Any suggestions welcome-
    thanks..

    • ANSWER:
      I am NOT a doctor, just sharing my experiences. please discuss this with your doctor.

      John, I am disabled (due to being the victim of an auto accident) two back surgeries and severe damage to my nerves and ligaments in and to my neck. Therefore, as you I have difficult sleeping.

      As for moving on to something else, two thoughts come to mind.... 1) Ambien is likely to be much stronger than an over the counter med like Valerian. 2) however, perhaps switching to something new would be good, as over time your body builds up a tolerance to certain meds.

      I have not yet tried Valerian. I have only seen the commercials. I see my doc in a couple of weeks and plan on asking him about before I buy it.

      I tried ambien myself (about 2 years ago). it actually gave me nightmares, so I flushed the rest of them. I tried another prescription sleeping pill, I do not recall the name, sorry, but it had me in bed 18 hours per day and was leading me into depression.

      Ask your doc about Valium. I got it to relax my neck muscles, but it also helps a bit with sleep.

      However DO NOT Mix Valium With AMBIEN!!!! That can be a deadly combination. I actually have a neighbor who O.D.'ed via Valium, Ambien, and pain meds. (we believe it was intentional)

      I was a respiratory therapist before my accident, so I am familiar with sleep apnea and the uncomfortable mask you have to wear. The Valium may help relax you and ease the discomfort of the mask.

      Tylenol PM and those other over the counter sleep aids use diphenhydramine as the active ingredient. aka... Benadryl. Benadryl is cheaper than Tylenol PM and is not as harsh on your liver. It does help, but, as with many drugs, after you take it for a while, it does not work as well.

      As mentioned I am NOT a doctor or pharmacist. do NOT add/combine Benadryl, Valium, or anything else with your Ambien WITH-OUT clearing it with your doctor. (you will need an Rx for the Valium). As you know, mixing sleep aids can be dangerous.

      Best wishes my friend.
      Wally

  38. QUESTION:
    what are some good non narcotic sleep aids?
    I have an issue getting to sleep at night. i work full time so it should not be a problem. but for whatever reason it is. i don't want to take any narcotic sleep aids. are there any good ones? suggestions?
    Thank you

    • ANSWER:
      There are not any narcotics approved for the treatment of insomnia. Under Federal Law a narcotic refers only to opioids (morphine, Heroin, meperidine, oxycodone, hydromorphone) and cocaine. The medical definition of a narcotic only refers to opioids.

      Most hypnotics are controlled substances but they are NOT considered narcotics under the law or by scientific definition.

      In The United States there are two drugs FDA approved for the treatment of insomnia that are NOT controlled substances. The first is Silenor (doxepin) which was recently FDA approved. The actual medication doxepin is actually fairly old and has been sold under the brand name Sinequan. Doxepin is actually an antidepressant with some sedating properties. Doxepin is not really that effective and a large number of people find the medication to be ineffective.

      The second drug approved for insomnia is Rozerem (ramelteon) a melatonin receptor agonist. Rozerem is only effective in helping people fall asleep, it will not help keep people asleep. Rozerem is the least effective FDA approved hypnotic- only a modest number of people respond to it and it typically decreases sleep latency by only a few minutes.

      Treatment guidelines, such as those from The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, typically recommend the use of medications like Ambien (zolpidem), Ambien CR (zolpidem extended-release), Sonata (zaleplon), Lunesta (eszopiclone), or Restoril (temazepam), among others as first-line treatment. These medications are controlled substances however they have a low potential of abuse and short-term use has an almost non-existent risk of addiction although people with a history of substance abuse may not be ideal for using these medications as a first-line treatment. Lunesta is the only medication officially approved for both acute and chronic insomnia.

      The reality is the best hypnotics are controlled substances and many medications prescribed for insomnia that don't have an abuse potential are generally not particularly effective and often are associated with significant side effects and other risks.

  39. QUESTION:
    Can you take sleep aids during a sleep study? I am going for?
    my second study where I will be wears the CPAP mask this time in addition to the 25 wires, 2 belts, nasal canula and pulse ox meter. I was really hard to sleep last time. I wonder if taking some type of sleep aid will mess up the test?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes it will. You are not to take anything except for your daily, prescribed medications. You will be amazed how well you will sleep when you can breathe without snoring with the CPAP mask on. After being chronically sleep deprived because of sleep apnea, this is going to be a blessing. Don't take any sleep aids.

  40. QUESTION:
    Does anyone know of any very powerful over the counter sleep aids?
    I live next to a freeway and can't get any sleep at night. I was wondering if anyone knew of any powerful over the counter sleeping pills or liquids. I need something that'll put me into a deep sleep because i'm a very light sleeper and it's impossible for me to get any sleep because of the freeway.

    • ANSWER:
      I've been reading about natural herbs, etc. that help you relax and sleep. Kava kava is probably the most well known herb. From what I've read, lemon balm and lavender can also help you sleep. You can get these herbs in a pill form from any health food store. You could also ask the employee what they recommend to help you sleep. Believe it or not, you will eventually get used to the noise and, if you move to a quieter neighborhood, you won't be able to sleep because it's too quiet! That happened to me. Good luck.

  41. QUESTION:
    I am thinking of switching to Perception sleep aids what do you think?
    I sleep near a loud motor every night, but the diphenhydramine isn't working as well as it used to. what are your thoughts on switching to a stronger medicine? I don't want to become some kind of pill junkie!

    • ANSWER:
      Over the counter sleep aids are very addictive. That's why you need more and more.

      See your doctor and get the very safe Ambien CR., Rozerem or Lunesta.
      Best of luck to you. :)

  42. QUESTION:
    is it hard to be awakened if i took sleep aids?
    i havent had much sleep, so ive turned to a sleep aid for help. I wanted to know if i take it, will it be harder for me to wake up if someone tried to wake me up or if i heard a noise?

    • ANSWER:
      yes it is hard to wake up !

  43. QUESTION:
    Is Tylenol PM safe for occasional use as a sleep-aid ? Are there any safe,non-addictive sleep aids ?
    I am trying to adjust to a tird- shift schedule. The television commercials for Tylenol PM ?? say that it helps getting to sleep ? Is the product safe for occasional use ? Are there any safe, non- addictive sleeping- aid type products ?
    Thank you

    • ANSWER:
      Tylenol is perfectly fine for short-term use if you are only taking it to sleep, but you probably want to talk to your doctor just to make sure if you are planning on taking it every night for an extended period of time. I've actually had a fair amount of luck taking it to help me sleep.

      Some people have had good luck taking Melatonin which you can purchase at a drug store.

      Lastly, you can speak to your doctor about a medication out there that helps you stay awake during part of the day. It doesn't help with the sleeping, it just keeps you up when you need to be, which in theory helps you sleep later on. Its called Modanifil and you can talk to your doctor about it.

  44. QUESTION:
    Are there any OTC sleep aids that do not include diphenhydramine?
    I'm in desperate need of some sleep, but I have an adverse reaction to Benadryl. I can't get in to see my doctor for several weeks, so until then, I need something I can take 1-2 evenings each week. I've tried melatonin, with no luck

    • ANSWER:
      There is a drug called Doxylamine Succinate.It is made by Unisom so you have to check the package because they also sell unisom that contains diphenhydramine. It is also available as a generic store brand under the name nighttime sleep aid or something similar. Doxylamine succinate has been shown to be more effective than many prescription sleep aids including some prescription barbiturates and it is fairly cheap if you buy generic.

  45. QUESTION:
    What are some great natural sleep aids I could take?
    I'm 16 and I have a great trouble with sleeping.
    I once finally hit sleep mode passed 6am

    I don't take any medications like talynol or motrin
    when i'm in any kind of pain. I don't want to take
    harsh chemicals just to get some rest during the night.

    What natural remedies (like Bach's Rescue remedy) could
    I take that would knock me out and then have me wake up
    fully refreshed??

    • ANSWER:
      You could try trying to relax and unwind prior to going to sleep at night as this helps a lot of people with sleep problems.

      Essential oils can be used to help you get a good nights sleep. Here are some of the top essential oils which can calm and relax, helping to you to fall asleep more easily and get a good nights rest.

      Lavender helps to calm the nervous system and relax the body. Lavender is used in aromatherapy to fight insomnia, anxiety, depression and fatigue.

      Mandarin is a wonderful gentle oil that is popular for use with children. It helps encourage sleep by easing nervous tension and soothing irritability.

      Chamomile has a good relaxing effect on the nervous system. The oil can be used as for other essential oils (see below). Alternatively try a cup of Chamonile tea about half hour before bed

      Bergamot as a great stress relieving oil to help you relax. This citrus fragrance encourages restful sleep and is believed to be a natural anti-depressant.

      There are a few different ways you can use essential oils to help you sleep.

      - Skin application or Massage. Never apply essential oils directly on your skin, make sure to dilute in a carrier or vegetable oil. (you will need about 5 teaspoons of carrier oil for every 10 drops of essential oils) Massage the blend into feet and hands or around the neck, shoulders or upper back if you get tense in these areas.

      - Bath. For an adults bath, add 4-6 drops of essential oil just before you get in and swish this around to mix well. Essential oils do not dissolve readily in water but will disperse if well mixed. Do not prepare the bath in advance as much of the volatile oil will be lost. Don't be tempted to add more oil, even if the amount looks tiny. Essential oils are very concentrated and the number of drops suggested is more than sufficient. Allow plenty of time for a relaxing soak for at least 10 minutes, or up to 20 minutes if you can! Some of the oil will adhere to the skin and some will be inhaled as an aromatic vapour

      - Inhalation: can simply add a few drops of the oil onto a tissue and tuck inside your pillow case so you will inhale the oil through the night for better quality sleep or add the essential oil to an aromatherapy vaporiser. Do not use an oil burner with a candle as it is not safe to leave this burning while you are asleep.

      Hope this helps!

  46. QUESTION:
    Need help falling asleep without sleep aids, any suggestions?
    I can't fall asleep without taking some kind of sleep aid. As soon as I lay down to sleep my mind kicks in and I start thinking about everything. I need a way to shut my mind down. Help!

    • ANSWER:
      Here are a few things that work for me.

      1. Don't drink coffee or tea before going to bed.

      2. Don't eat oranges or any other fruit with vitamin C.

      3. Make sure that you don't have broken faucets / taps. There's nothing worse than *drip*drip*drip* all night long. (although, this is hardly something that you can fix when you're about to go to bed)

      4. Inhale and count to 3 (at the same time, but don't count aloud), then exhale and count to 6 (again, at the same time and not alound). You'll start yawning soon.

      5. Have an audible clock (digital or old fashioned wind-up one), and concentrate on the ticking.

      6. Before going to bed, make sure that the room is fairly cold / chilly

      7. Have a busy schedule during the day. There's nothing like a good night's sleep after you've been working all day long.

      8. Don't do math before going to bed.

      That's about it.

  47. QUESTION:
    What are some effective natural sleep aids?
    I've been having trouble sleeping recently and don't want to keep having to rely on sleeping medication. What natural home remedies are available?

    • ANSWER:
      Depending on the season, a warm bath is a great way to relax. If you can’t take a bath, you can give yourself a foot massage with slightly warm massage oil, sesame oil, or castor oil from a health food store.

      What was very helpful to me, especially when my mind was racing, was to lie in bed and listen to relaxation CDs, especially those that contain someone speaking with relaxing music in the background. Many of these CDs are available on eBay for very low prices.

      A helpful technique is to relax your body one part at a time. So you could relax your feet, your lower legs, upper legs, moving up from your lower belly up to your chest, etc., etc.

      Of course, guided relaxation methods can help, imagining yourself in the country, the beach, or whatever is most soothing to you.

      If you have annoying thoughts or personal issues that run thru your mind when you are trying to sleep, you might have to deal with those issues first. You might want to talk to a counselor or therapist about that. I suggest avoiding prescription sleeping pills unless nothing else helps.

      There are herbs that are helpful for sleep, eg, valerian root, kava kava, chamomile, hops, passion flower, skullcap. If you get the real herbs, you can make teas out of them. Otherwise get the herbs in capsule form. You can try a single herb or herbal combinations. Probably, valerian root and kava kava are the best.

      You can also try trytophan, 5-HTP and melatonin (1-2 mg). I would not take melatonin for over a month. It is a hormone produced by the pineal gland. If you take too much, your pineal gland might get "lazy" and produce less melatonin naturally. Life Extension and TwinLabs are probably the best brands, in that order.

  48. QUESTION:
    What natural sleep aids can I take with an antidepressant?
    I take Lexapro. I would like to try something like Valerian or Melatonin. Is it safe to take either of these?

    • ANSWER:
      If valerian or melatonin don't help, you can try good old Benadryl, the antihistamine. Start with one, I take 2 myself.

  49. QUESTION:
    Are there any over the counter sleep aids that are strong/ work well?
    I need something to help me fall into a deep sleep.

    • ANSWER:
      Nyquil.

      Don't abuse it.

  50. QUESTION:
    Can taking percription sleep aids make your anti depressant lose it's effectivness?
    I am wondering becuase my Lexapro seems like it's not working, and I just feel like crap, and full of anxiety and some panicly feelings, and headahces.. I have been on sleeping pills for a month. Feeling like crap for a couple of weeks. Lexapro 9 months, Ambien, 1 month.

    • ANSWER:


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