Finding the right sleep aid to take with medicine like Gabapentin can be difficult. With so many options and combinations, it can be overwhelming to know what will work best for you.
Having a good night's sleep is essential for feeling energized, refreshed, and ready to take on the day. But for many of us, getting a restful sleep can be a challenge. It's hard to get a restful sleep when you're constantly tossing and turning, experiencing fatigue during the day, or struggling to fall asleep in the first place.
If you’re taking medicine like Gabapentin and want to find the right sleep aid to pair with it, then read this article. We’ll discuss the various options and combinations available, so you can make an informed decision and find the sleep aid that works best for you.
With the right sleep aid, you can get the sleep you need, wake refreshed, and be ready to take on the day.
Understanding Gabapentin and Its Effects on Sleep
Gabapentin is a drug used to treat a variety of neurological disorders, including epilepsy and restless leg syndrome. It has also been studied for its effects on sleep and is known to help improve sleep quality.
What is Gabapentin and How Does it Work?
As an anticonvulsant drug, Gabapentin is used to treat seizure disorders, neuropathic pain, and hot flashes.
It works by decreasing the number of abnormal electrical signals sent in the brain. It is believed to work by affecting the action of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals that send signals between neurons).
How Does Gabapentin Affect Sleep?
Studies have shown that gabapentin can improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia symptoms. It has been used to treat patients with chronic insomnia, as well as those with sleep disturbances due to other medical conditions. In addition, Gabapentin can help reduce the frequency and intensity of night-time awakenings.
Sleep Aids and Their Compatibility with Gabapentin
Sleep aids containing diphenhydramine (such as Tranquil Nighttime Sleep Aid) could increase the following side effects:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Impairment judgment
- Motor coordination
What about natural sleep aids?
So far, studies indicate that melatonin is the most compatible sleep aid to take in combination with gabapentin. As you would’ve already seen, Gebepentin can encourage sleepiness, but what happens when it also encourages daytime grogginess?
There is some evidence that melatonin may help reduce this fatigue that often comes with Gabapentin use, which makes melatonin one of the top sleep aids to use with Gabapentin.
Always chat with your doctor before combining Gabapentin with a sleep aid, whether it is natural or pharmaceutical.
Common Types of Sleep Aids
Sleep aids come in a variety of forms, from over-the-counter medications to natural supplements. Some of the most common sleep aids are diphenhydramine, melatonin, and gabapentin.
Diphenhydramine, also known as Benadryl, is an antihistamine that helps reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. Melatonin, a hormone found naturally in the body, helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle.
Gabapentin is a medication used to treat certain types of seizures but is also sometimes used as a sleep aid.
Can You Take Sleep Aids with Gabapentin?
You can take sleep aids with Gabapentin, but you need to speak with your doctor about which one is safe for use first.
Diphenhydramine can be an effective sleep aid but can also interact negatively with medication like Gabapentin. Some studies indicate melatonin is a safe option for people using gabapentin, but as always, talk to your doctor before taking them to ensure they are safe for you to take and that they will not interact with any other medications you may be taking.
Sleep Stick is formulated with melatonin, a hormone found naturally in the body that helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. Sleep Stick is a Doctor-developed proprietary formula that acts fast and effectively to help you sleep better, wake refreshed, and be ready to take on the day.
Made with natural ingredients, the Sleep Stick is a safe, non-habit-forming way to get a good night’s rest.
What Are the Potential Risks of Taking Sleep Aids with Gabapentin?
Combining sleep aids with Gabapentin can be risky, as the two drugs may interact with each other in unpredictable ways. Possible interactions between sleep aids and Gabapentin can lead to serious side effects and health risks, such as dizziness, fatigue, confusion, and blurry vision.
In rare cases, combining sleep aids with Gabapentin may cause more serious health risks, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, and seizures.
Therefore, it is important to consult with a doctor before combining sleep aids with Gabapentin, as they can advise you on the best course of action based on your individual needs.
Alternatives to Sleep Aids for Improving Sleep with Gabapentin
If you can’t mix your Tranquil Nighttime Sleep Aid (diphenhydramine) and Gabapentin- don’t panic; there are a couple of alternatives you could try!
Relaxation technique
Taking time for yourself to relax and wind down for the night can make all the difference when it comes to getting a good night's sleep. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, deep breathing, and guided imagery are all helpful for promoting relaxation and better sleep.
Dietary changes
Besides giving your body a bit of physical help to relax, you could make a positive change in the kitchen too. Making dietary changes can also help to improve your sleep. Avoiding caffeine and sugary foods, eating more complex carbohydrates, and eating dinner earlier are all dietary changes that can help you fall asleep easier and stay asleep longer.
Lifestyle changes
Adjusting your sleep schedule so that you are going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, exercising, and avoiding alcohol and nicotine are all lifestyle changes that can help you get better sleep. If you struggle to fall asleep at the same time, perhaps you could look into melatonin, a natural hormone known to regulate our sleep-wake cycle.
Research has shown that there is a very low risk associated with combining melatonin and gabapentin. If you are looking for a natural sleep aid, consider adding a melatonin-based product to your nighttime routine.
Talk to your doctor before you do, especially if you are already on prescription sleep aids.
Prescription Sleep Aids
If you are taking Gabapentin and are still having difficulty sleeping, there are a few alternative prescription medications that may be compatible with Gabapentin for improving sleep. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any of these medications, as they can lead to unpleasant side effects if not taken correctly.
3 Tips for Improving Sleep While Taking Gabapentin
If you’re taking gabapentin for sleep, there are several things you can do to improve your sleep hygiene.
1. Talk to Your Doctor
It’s always important to talk to your doctor before taking any sleep aids or making changes to your medication regimen. Your healthcare provider can help you find the best solution for your individual needs and make sure that you’re getting the most out of your sleep aid.
2. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is one of the best ways to improve sleep hygiene. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help your body get into a sleep rhythm.
It’s also important to avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, as these can disrupt your sleep. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try reading a book, listening to music, or taking a warm bath to help relax your body and mind
If you want to feel your body relax as you prepare for a restful night’s sleep, creating a comfortable sleep environment is key. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. This will help your body relax and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
3. Keep a Sleep Diary
Getting a good night's sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being. To get the most out of your sleep, we recommend tracking your sleep patterns and habits. This will help you to identify areas for improvement and track progress as you strive to get the restful sleep you need and deserve.
FAQs
What drugs should not be taken with gabapentin?
It's important to always consult your doctor before taking any medication, including gabapentin. Gabapentin may interact with certain drugs, including antacids, narcotics, sedatives, blood thinners, and certain antidepressants, so it's important to talk to your doctor about these potential interactions before taking gabapentin.
Can gabapentin help with being unable to sleep?
Yes, gabapentin can be used to help with sleep difficulties. It's been shown to improve the quality of sleep and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. However, it may cause grogginess and fatigue the following day. Talk to your doctor to find out if gabapentin is right for you.
Taking Sleep Aids with Gabapentin: Which should you use?
If you're taking Gabapentin, it's important to talk to your doctor before you start using a sleep aid. While some sleep aids are safe to use with Gabapentin, others may interact with the medication and cause adverse side effects. Melatonin-formulated products are a good option for those taking Gabapentin.
Sleep Stick is formulated with melatonin, so it can be a safe and effective choice for those looking for a natural sleep aid, but talk to your doctor before you decide to take a melatonin sleep aid in combination with Gabapentin.
Good or bad, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Find us on Twitter (@twitter)