How to Sleep: Meds and Remedies

I just hop in bed and fall asleep effortlessly. Many other people toss and turn, read books, count sheep, but still have no shut eye. As a night pharmacist I see it everyday. Instead of waking up energized ready for the day, you more than likely grumpy, aggravated, and just plan tired. This article will provide some helpful hints to help you sleep at night and get the much needed rest you need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Caffeine
   Its found in every corner of our lives. Soda (Mountain Dew, pain medications (Excedrin), and teas all contain coffee. Try to avoid large amounts regardless if its in the afternoon or morning. Studies have determined that the consumption of caffeine in the afternoon can remain in your system until bedtime.

2. 
    

   Exercise
   Studies have determined that patients who exercise vigorously during day sleep better at night. During the course of the day just move your body.

3. 
    

   Forget your day's worries
   Many people have difficulty falling asleep because they are constantly thinking. You can find many ehow articles on how to relax to sleep.

4. 
    

   Snacking into Dreams
   You can boost the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan by eating carbohydrates. Try a bowl of Cheerios, muffin, or bagel. Anything high in carbohydrates will help in getting your body ready for sleep.

5. 
    

   Melatonin
   Melatonin is a hormone believed to be associated with the body' s internal clock. There is evidence that taking melatonin can help in promoting and maintaining sleep in patients.

6. 
    

   Chamomile
   Chamomile has been used for centuries to relax and fall asleep. There is no direct evidence of its success, but there must be some truth in its history considering chamomile tea has been used for hundreds of years. Try drinking a cup of Chamomile tea before bed time.

7. Valerian
   Has been used throughout history to induce sleep in patients. Binds to the same receptor sites as benzodiazepines, a hypnotic agent.

8. Kava-Kava
   It's currently used for anxiety, but has gained popularity in helping patients sleep. There are not enough trials seen to encourage its use as a sleeping agent, but the potential of it seems worthwhile.

9. 
    

   Lavender
   Very little data supports its use. However, there has been some evidence that a small amount on your pillows can help with sleep.

10. 
     

    Diphenhydramine
    Benadryl is commonly used as a sleeping agent. It's marketed under the names Unisom or Sleep-EZ, but it's all Benadryl. Take 50mg of Benadryl to help you fall asleep at night. For that matter, all antihistamines besides Zrytec and Claritin can cause drowsiness.

11. 
     

    See your doctor
    If none of this remedies work consult your physician for sleep aides behind the pharmacy counter. Many of these medications can help you sleep at night and improve your quality of life.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult your physician or pharmacist for information, concerns, or questions
• Always consult your physician or pharmacist before trying any of these remedies.
• Be careful because many of these remedies have potential hazardous interactions with prescribed medications

[Ladybugblue]

on 3/4/2009 These are all good tips! 5*