I have an on going debate with my girlfriend about this. Here's the argument:
She say's that its considered substance abuse when you take Nyquil when you ARE NOT sick and are just using it for the benefit of sleeping enhancement. I believe it is okay to drink Nyquil even when you are not sick just so you can fall asleep better.
So, I would like to know if this would be considered substance abuse or not?
2007-11-12 19:18:18 · 19 answers · asked by Tony 1 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
I forgot to mention. In this scenario, the person in question, would NOT exceed the recommended dosage at a time, per day. And not mixing with anything else (drugs, alcohol or other medications, etc.)
2007-11-12 19:20:53 · update #1
Why not take something specifically to help you sleep if you have insomnia? They have over the counter sleepnig pills you can take. Sometimes I take tylenol PM just to help me sleep even if I don't have a headache. I don't see it as substance abuse, but if its an ongoing problem perhaps you should see a doctor or take medicine that is specifically for your problem so you aren't over medicating on something you could build a tolerance to and then need to take for its intended purpose later.
2007-11-12 19:22:50 · answer #1 · answered by punished_princess 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don’t think it is substance abuse, if you’re feeling guilty try a NyQuil pill. I often have trouble falling asleep and I take Melatonin which is a dietary supplement, (I get it at trader Joe's) and it works wonders. If that doesn't’t work you could also try Unisom or Solmonex (I think that is how it is spelled) which are both over the counter sleeping pills that you can get at any drug store. So long story short, no NyQuil is not substance abuse it is a sleeping aide
2007-11-12 19:34:02 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Considering it has about 1000mg of APAP per ounce, it's probably not a good thing to do regularly, especially if you drink alcohol. APAP (Tylenol) blocks certain enzymes in your liver and can build up in your body over time. Also, it usually contains pseudoephedrine as a decongestant which is also a CNS stimulant. That means you will get less restful sleep, even if it seems like you're falling asleep faster.
You can try some tried and true sleep methods, such as getting a better bed, getting up earlier, exposure to sunlight, etc. Also, there are some natural fixes, such as chamomile tea, warm milk and the like.
Lastly, you can take melatonin, 1 to 3mg, but only if you're guaranteed 8 hours of sleep. Again, only if you really need it, not every day.
2007-11-12 19:29:57 · answer #3 · answered by DC 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you take it and you're not sick, then its abuse. If you need it to fall asleep then you may be getting dependent. Try getting some excersize during the day and don't eat a few hours before bedtime. Drink some chamomile or herbal teas for those times when you need sleeping enhancements. Try meditation just before going to sleep while in bed and you will have a restful sleep. Read a text book. Count sheep (just kidding).
2007-11-12 19:33:33 · answer #4 · answered by GisL4all 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it isn't for a cold, it is substance abuse since you are taking it only for the alcohol in it. It is no different then wine. A small glass of red wine would be better for you before bedtime, but only if you can keep it to a small glass.
NyQuil tastes nasty too! :-)
2007-11-12 19:25:32 · answer #5 · answered by JAN 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Using a medication for its secondary gain, in this case sleep inducement, would be considered abuse. Stop doing this and find other ways to help you fall asleep at night. Nyquil is not meant to be taken as a sleep aid.
2007-11-12 19:26:25 · answer #6 · answered by Richard B 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
On occasion, I have also sipped a lil Nyquil to go beddy-by.
I don't think it's abuse at all unless you are doing it ALL the time and taking more than directed.
Tell your honey to chill a little or pay for your Dr's visit for sleeping aids.
2007-11-12 19:23:45 · answer #7 · answered by †..Jetta..† 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You would sleep for a VERY VERY LONG time...maybe permanently, as in death. As the other person said...the Acetaminophen in Nyquil would cause considerable damage....then they would put you in the psych ward (if you lived through it) for trying to kill yourself. If you are sick, a regular dose of Nyquil usually does the trick. Follow the directions on the bottle and don't try to take more just because you think it will work more.
2016-03-14 11:41:15 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Abuse would need to be qualified by a pattern--do you do it every night, do you NEED it to fall asleep?
It works well as far as puttingyou out, but it does contain a few ingredients you probably shouldn't take if you aren't sick.
I'm with you though, it's no biggie. Lighten up girlfriend!
2007-11-12 19:23:30 · answer #9 · answered by deepseaofblankets 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it would really depend on HOW often you're doing that. I do it on occasion and I don't feel like I'm an addict...LOL!
I don't think it's any different than having a "hot toddy" before bed to help you sleep.
It's cool that your girlfriend is looking out for you though.
2007-11-12 19:23:00 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋