Can’t sleep? Do you know why? Although there are lots of things that can keep us awake at night, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, none of these might be the reason we toss and turn. Or, maybe these feelings are simply the symptoms of what’s really at the root of our insomnia. Furthermore, is it a racing mind or nightmares, or even sleepwalking that is ruining sleep?
Millions of people are taking all sorts of medications for dozens of different ailments, both big and small. Yet, the one thing they may have in common is the dreaded problem of being unable to sleep. Some of them get so tired that, just like the narrator in Fight Club, “everything is a copy of a copy of a copy” while they’re awake. But what are these medications and what can you do about it?
Common Medications that Cause Sleep Disorders
Some of the most common medications that cause sleep disorders include:
- Heart medication – Beta blockers, cholesterol lowering drugs, statins, and more can cause sleepless nights and groggy days
- Asthma medication – A drug called Theophylline has chemicals similar to caffeine, and corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can give patients the jitters
- Antidepressants – Insomnia is more common with antidepressants than other drugs, and SSRIs have been linked to this common complaint, as well as other more serious side effects
- ADHD medication – Drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) are stimulants meant to help people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but either keep users awake or from falling into REM sleep
Over the counter medications, such as cold and allergy medications that contain pseudoephedrine may help people get through their day, but slow release medications can keep you from sleeping well. If you have a cold, this can only prolong the misery – something we’ve all gone through.
Although problems with sleep are a fairly common complaint, you may be able to change to a medication that doesn’t cause insomnia or nightmares. Speak to your doctor about what the problem is and how he or she might be able to help.
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