Other sleep meds? - Sleep Disorders Message Board

Jessbear · 12-11-2006, 02:15 AM

I have been struggling with insomnia and have been taking Lunesta to help me sleep. I've always been bothered by the icky taste that it leaves, but lately it seems like I'm more bothered by it than usual. I think I'm just annoyed with it because the nasty taste doesn't go away until dinner time the next day. Does anyone have any advice about other sleep meds to try? Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks,
Jess

dustoffkid · 12-11-2006, 11:55 AM

I feel ya. I hate the taste it leaves, too. Unfortunately it's the one that works the best for me, and I am concerned enough about all of the side effects of Ambien not to use it.

Jessbear · 12-12-2006, 01:39 AM

Yeah, I've heard so many horror stories about Ambien that I'm afraid to even try it. Lunesta leaves such an awful taste that even water tastes nasty. I've asked my doctor about the taste thing and her suggestion was to just make sure and brush your teeth and tongue well. Um, yeah... that SO does not help.

Thanks for the reply!

Hypnomoemoe · 12-20-2006, 01:13 AM

Try Benadryl. The only downside is, you may have nightmares or very interesting dreams after taking it for several nights. It's not addicting. Relaxes the muscles. I suggested this to the doctor at the hospital I work at 12 years ago for the adolescense on my unit rather than the "sleep meds". Since then, All the patients now are offered Benadry not only for sleep, but for anxieties or agitation before tranquilizers are offered. I would estimate that this is effective in 90% of all the patients...sometimes though, the patient may be allergic to Benadryl, so talk it over with your doctor first.
Also, a non med approach is hypnotherapy...teaches you relaxing techniques, or can find the cause of your insomnia.

Jessbear · 12-21-2006, 12:50 AM

I took Benadryl for a long time before talking with my doctor about my sleep problems. Eventually the Benadryl stopped working. Also, I've heard that if you take Benadryl on a regular basis, then your body eventually gets used to it and it won't be effective if you actually need it for an allergic reaction to something.

Thanks for the suggestion though!

Oh, and I know the cause of my insomnia: I work nights and have to sleep during the day. I don't have any trouble falling asleep, but cannot stay asleep. I only get about 3 hours of sleep at a time. I have no trouble sleeping at nighttime. I've been trying to get a different job for the past 2 1/2 years with no luck.