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Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 6,475
Registered: ‎03-14-2015

Unfortunately, people tend to think that just because it's herbal, or natural, that that means no side effects, and that it's 100% safe.

 

 

 

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,138
Registered: ‎05-20-2011

@dooBdoo wrote:

@daisyk wrote:

Melatonin has given me weird dreams every time I've tried it. Seemingly restless sleep too. I have better luck with an Advil/PM when I need to do something.


 

            @daisyk,  You might already know this, but in case you don't...  please remember the "PM" in the various OTC products is usually nothing but Benadryl (diphenhydramine).   Unless we need pain relief, using Tylenol PM, Advil PM, etc., adds an unnecessary drug for our organs to process.   Generic diphenhydramine without added pain relievers or anti-inflammatories is sufficient if it helps you to sleep.

            As I mentioned in my other post, it's really important to make it a habit to read the labels of OTC drugs, supplements, etc., read the list of ingredients, and learn about potential adverse effects or interactions with other meds or supplements.   Just as we're interested in what the cosmetics industry adds to products, we need to be aware of what's in OTC products and how they affect our body before we ingest them.

            By the way...  in some people, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can cause restless leg syndrome.   In that case, it's not a great option for a good sleep.

 


@dooBdoo..Hi there and thank you, I do know about the diphenhydramine and will usually just use a generic Benadryl unless I do feel I need the pain relief also. I appreciate your pointing it out though-Smiley Happy I wish the melatonin did better for me.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 18,504
Registered: ‎05-23-2010

@Plaid Pants2 wrote:

Unfortunately, people tend to think that just because it's herbal, or natural, that that means no side effects, and that it's 100% safe.

 

 

 


 

And many, MANY people figure if one pill is good, three pills will be fabulous.  Not a good thing to figure.

Life without Mexican food is no life at all
Honored Contributor
Posts: 17,606
Registered: ‎06-27-2010

daisyk wrote:




 

 


@dooBdoo..Hi there and thank you, I do know about the diphenhydramine and will usually just use a generic Benadryl unless I do feel I need the pain relief also. I appreciate your pointing it out though-Smiley Happy I wish the melatonin did better for me.


 

 

            Hi, there, @daisykimage.gif  You're welcome.   I meant to say the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs I wrote were just general comments, not directed at you or anyone in particular.   Sending you good wishes for peaceful sleep, and for sweet dreams every night.

 

 

 

 

Few things reveal your intellect and your generosity of spirit—the parallel powers of your heart and mind—better than how you give feedback.~Maria Popova
Honored Contributor
Posts: 20,141
Registered: ‎04-28-2010

For allergies that might cause  headaches  (within myself), I use a quarter of one tablet.  And then, a couple of hours later, another quarter of a tablet.  Etc, etc.   I've found that taking only a portion of a dose usually works just as well.   I use regular Benedryl (or generic store brands) and (NOT the 'non-drowsy' which has warnings related to high blood pressure, etc.  Well, the last time I looked, anyway, several years ago.).  

'More or less', 'Right or wrong', 'In general', and 'Just thinking out loud ' (as usual).
Super Contributor
Posts: 297
Registered: ‎03-31-2010

I started taking GABA 500mg and i't the best thing I done for getting a restful peaceful sleep in years.  Now mom, husband and other friends take it and they also agree. I've always had a hart time sleeping even with melatonin but GABA is great.

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,354
Registered: ‎03-21-2010
I take Melatonin without issues and different strengths. I have trouble goiing to slleep and saying asleep. I have to have a slkeep study done v ery soon. Any tips would be most helpful. Thank you.
Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,553
Registered: ‎03-14-2010

I was disappointed when Trader Joe's changed their formulation from .5mg to 3mg last year . Most studies I have read say the Optimum dose is closer to 1 mg. People taking 3-5 mg is probably too much. I can't split the pill easily. Will look for another brand. I liked the Traders version because it melted under your tongue and had a fresh mint flavor.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,553
Registered: ‎03-14-2010

I had a devil of a time falling asleep for about 3 months last year. Some nights I wouldn't sleep at all. I finally resorted to getting a prescription for Ambien. It worked for me with no side affects like sleep walking. I was worried I would NEVER fall asleep naturally again. Insomnia can play games with your mind. I have reverted back to normal sleeping patterns without taking drugs. But I can only sleep 6 hours a night. When I was younger I slept a good 8 hours. I do take an occasional melatonin and find listening to talk radio in the evening in bed for about an hour helps me relax.

Valued Contributor
Posts: 700
Registered: ‎03-13-2010

The thing that works the best for me is being very tired from lots of physical exercise during the day. Stair climbing, at least 10,000 steps, and at least 30 min of exercise with being on my feet most of the day really makes a difference. I also stopped worrying about sleep. I take my 3 mg of melatonin, drink a little cherry juice, put my iPad with night shift enabled on the pillow and read until I go to sleep. I sleep in a cold room and if I wake up, i read a little awhile and go back to sleep. The exercise and being really tired work for me. I tried trazadone but it did not work for me.