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Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine)
Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: 5 days ago | Replies (6363)Comment receiving replies
Another thing that came up at my doctors appointment today: I asked about possible alternatives to help me sleep, as I've taken ambien for several years, and she made it a point to tell me how hard it is to get off of. So now I guess I have that to look forward to as well.
She prescribed another medication called belsomra, but I'm not keen on starting anything else that's going to eventually be hell.
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I have tried belsomra. It is very expensive and for me, ineffective.
My insurance won't cover ambien any more but GoodRx came to the rescue, I am cutting back on the ambien to 5mg nightly and also take 5mg of melatonin. This works for me with no hungover feeling.
If I don't take something for sleep I basically can't fall asleep. Toss and turn for hours.
Recently diagnosed with gastroparesis and I read this can cause sleep issues. Complicated bodies we have! Aging is no picnic.
Read this forum faithfully and appreciate all the info and kindness here.
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@sandij
Good Morning,
As you might be able to tell, sleep is something I have an issue with, too.
I fall asleep, but I don't stay asleep.
I get about 3-5 hours a night.
As you may or may not remember, the psychiatrist I've been using for the last 4 years has left her practice.
I can't seem to find a new one who will either accept my insurance and/or have an appointment available for new patients until the new millenium!!!
Anyway, I was at my PCP for my regular 6 mos. checkup and we also discussed what I can do about sleep.
I am not willing to take another pill, either.
We spoke about melatonin.
He said I could try that but begin with a very low dose since everyone reacts differently.
I asked if I will have that hung over feeling in the morning and he said that it was possible.
I am going to give it a try but only when I feel I need it, like either one of those rare nights I don't sleep at all or if I have had several nights where I have only slept for 3 hours.
Here is to a good night's sleep!!!!!
Ronnie (GRANDMAr)