My doctor and I have been trying different sleep aides, but we have yet to find one the suits me. I would like to hear from anyone who has taken prescription or non prescription aides, and tell me how and why they worked for you. I understand that medicine affects everyone diffrently, but I would like to learn a little more about various options. I do not need any tips for a healthy sleep style, these are things I know much about. Please tell me about any sleep aides that did or did not work for you, and what they are called.
2006-08-08 13:23:06 · 31 answers · asked by Aunt Sam 4 in Health ➔ Alternative Medicine
Find somebody that does aromatherapy and have them mix a personal blend for you. Second best is herbal supplements. Go to www.trinityschool.org and find a naturopath in your area. If you can bring your body back into balance with herbal supplements, sleep should come naturally. If not, there are herbal combinations with valerian that may help.
2006-08-14 16:32:27 · answer #1 · answered by ohio healer 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Sleep aides are tricky. I don't know whether your doctor is trying to prescribe you Lunesta or Ambien or some drug of a similar nature, but out of personal experience with the latter; I found it very dangerous if I could not fall asleep. Your life becomes an almost lucid dream that isn't real until the next morning. It's a very bizarre experience if you end up staying awake, so use with moderation and caution.
2006-08-08 13:29:09 · answer #2 · answered by nickmireles89 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
TYLENOL PM POP A COUPLE OF THOSE BABIES AND YOU ARE OUT . YOU DONT WAKE UP FEELING LIKE ---- EITHER
2006-08-08 13:28:28 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would recommend trying natural sleep aides at a health store
2006-08-08 13:26:33 · answer #4 · answered by newpastorofgod 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm glad both you and your doctor are working on this together. I've battled insomnia for years and have tried a number of prescription and non-prescription aids. Results vary for individuals but in my experience, Valerian is the most helpful of the non-prescription aids. It is available in any drugstore and is not habit forming. It's better to use it on a more regular basis than the prescription meds. However, sometimes I need something stronger so Valium or Stilnox has helped me BUT, I don't take these longer than 2 days within a month's time as I don't want to be dependent on them.
I have not had much success with Melatonin at all. I actually felt nauseated after taking this.
Brisk walking several times a week also helped me cut down on the meds.
Good luck!
2006-08-11 04:42:13 · answer #5 · answered by duchess 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I've tried Lunesta and every over the counter sleep aid out there and none work for me. I think I need something stronger.
2006-08-16 11:27:47 · answer #6 · answered by deansheena 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sonata Rocks!
I have been fighting taking sleep aides for a long time. didn't want to get addicted like dad - was the main reason!
Anyway, after much debate, i finally gave in. Sonata works quickly with no hangover. After i got in the rhythm of sleeping at the same time each night, I didn't even need it anymore!
They say sonata is out of your system in FOUR hours! That is awesome!
2006-08-08 13:28:53 · answer #7 · answered by extremelyradicalman 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've found that the best sleep aid product are the over-the-counter generic ones. If the normal dosage doesn't work for you, I've doubled them before and then backed off after a few days. Walmart has a brand that are just called Sleep Aid, they are blue, liquid filled caplets, and I believe the dosage is two. The best tip I was ever given is to take them about 30 minutes before you are ready to actually get in the bed. Then read (not watch tv) until you feel your eyes get heavy, then force yourself to turn off the light. Because you can stay awake through them -- they won't just knock you out. The other thing that I've done, which is a big no-no, but works if you just have had it and MUST get a night of sleep, try Nyquil, that'll knock you out cold. All the best to you, I know how much it stinks to not be able to sleep.
2006-08-08 13:30:23 · answer #8 · answered by holly_c3 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Valeria is an herb and it works well. it just relaxes you enough to fall asleep and is available at a health food store.
Ambien works great, too, but can leave you feeling groggy the next day.
Tylenol PM and the like work if you are just stressed out one particular night, but shouldn't be used much more.
Of course, all of these should be discussed with your doctor cause sleep issues can be easily treated with diet/exercise (as you mentioned) and some more chronic problems might need further investigation.
Insomnia sucks!
2006-08-08 13:28:54 · answer #9 · answered by Tracie M 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Valerian is a gentle herbal sleep aid. It induces drowsiness without side effects. Can be found in most pharmacies, including Wal-Mart.
2006-08-08 13:28:24 · answer #10 · answered by keepsondancing 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋