Question by JohnS: 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..
Best answer:
Answer by wally r
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
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