Advice on sleep meds anyone?
Comments
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I agree with CR
For any question about your medication, you should discuss with your doctor. Even if you heard from 20 other women who had a similar experience, you would find that we are all different, so you will still need to do some "experimenting" yourself, within the parameters of what your doctor tells you is safe.
I know that it is SOOOOO frustrating to feel so tired during chemo and yet not be able to sleep. I hope you are able to find the right combination soon.
In my own experience, although I never really took any sleeping aids during chemo, I am now taking Effexor (a very small dose) to help with my hot flashes. I don't know if it's the Effexor or what, but I now am able to sleep more easily than I have for years and years, since long before my diagnosis. I finished my chemo just 1 year ago.
Rest up as much as you can!
Hugs,
Cindy0 -
Talk to your Dr.
I didn't have any problems with sleeping while on A/C but Taxol I did. The Center suggested Tylenol PM or Benadryl - neither worked for me. My Chemo Dr gave me Temazepam but it only gave me about 2 hrs sleep and horrible nightmares (i normally never have nightmares). My PA switched me to Ambien and it worked great. I still have a script over a year later for it 'just in case' I can't sleep some night - happens occasionally. For me, the Dex was not a problem - I was on it for 2 weeks last Oct/Nov for pain/pressure in and around right eye and had no sleep issues during that time. We are all so different - what's 'right' for one is not necessarily right for someone else.
Talk to your Dr.
Susan0 -
Doc leaves it up to me--every night seems OK with him...Rague said:Talk to your Dr.
I didn't have any problems with sleeping while on A/C but Taxol I did. The Center suggested Tylenol PM or Benadryl - neither worked for me. My Chemo Dr gave me Temazepam but it only gave me about 2 hrs sleep and horrible nightmares (i normally never have nightmares). My PA switched me to Ambien and it worked great. I still have a script over a year later for it 'just in case' I can't sleep some night - happens occasionally. For me, the Dex was not a problem - I was on it for 2 weeks last Oct/Nov for pain/pressure in and around right eye and had no sleep issues during that time. We are all so different - what's 'right' for one is not necessarily right for someone else.
Talk to your Dr.
Susan
Many thanks all! So true about how the side-effects vary... My problem is that my oncologist, and the physician's assitant too, keep saying to just take all I want of these (and other) meds. In reality I had a bad first treatment week in part because I took lots of anti-nausea meds, which had their own side-effects. Now I take none, and am much better that way... My sleeping isn't super terrible, it would just be better if I did in fact take ambien more often - say every other night - but I'm honestly scared to do that. I keep thinking that if I did, a month from now, when I'm done with chemo, my system would be all messed up and not sure how to sleep without meds...Anyone have more thoughts on that? If I did what my doctor and the oncology staff say, I'd probably take these drugs practically every night!0 -
SleepSleepquestion said:Doc leaves it up to me--every night seems OK with him...
Many thanks all! So true about how the side-effects vary... My problem is that my oncologist, and the physician's assitant too, keep saying to just take all I want of these (and other) meds. In reality I had a bad first treatment week in part because I took lots of anti-nausea meds, which had their own side-effects. Now I take none, and am much better that way... My sleeping isn't super terrible, it would just be better if I did in fact take ambien more often - say every other night - but I'm honestly scared to do that. I keep thinking that if I did, a month from now, when I'm done with chemo, my system would be all messed up and not sure how to sleep without meds...Anyone have more thoughts on that? If I did what my doctor and the oncology staff say, I'd probably take these drugs practically every night!
This is what I know about Ativan, but of course I do not know what it does in conjunction with any of your chemo meds. Ativan does not stay in your system for very long. So if you are just having trouble getting to sleep it can be helpful, but it may not be helpful for staying to sleep if you wake frequently. If your doctor and onocology staff are comfortable with the fact that you take this every night then I would trust that. Remember the doctor and the onocologist have knowlege about how these drugs interact with other drugs that your average person does not know. The onocologist has treated many people with cancer, this may only be your first or second expreince with cancer. So trust them if they say it is ok to take it every day. Why put yourself through unnecessary sleeplessness if there is a way to avoid it. If you are worried about not being able to stop using this at the end of treatement, they would also be the ones who would assist you in getting off the medication. I doubt that they would give anything that would be highly addictive.0 -
I took ativan at diagnosisRague said:Ask pharmacist
Sometimes you can get better drug info from your pharmacist - so ask them.
I took ativan at diagnosis and during chemo at night. It is also an antinausea. I found that I got used to it and had to increase my dosage. then I had to wean off it. I would still do it again it was very helpful. Now I take ambien twice a week. prior to working so I can get good sleep and be able to think. ativan is a 6-8 hour drug.
This was/is just me. You should consult your doc. I am still experimenting with the teas that New Flower sent me. she has given me good advice.0 -
I had trouble sleeping
on chemo--Taxotere/Cytoxan and Taxol/Cytoxan (but I admit that I always have difficulty sleeping and usually only get about 5 hours a night). My onc gave me ambien CR 12.5 mg and I took it with 2 benedryl which consistently gave me between 6 and 7.5 hours sleep a night. I am still taking it (8 weeks out of chemo) during rads (1/2 through). I feel like I am finally able to get some sleep which I know is important for the healing process. Sometimes I have weird dreams but don't seem to have any other side effects.
Speak with your onc--he's the only one who can tell you what will be ok with your chemo cocktail.
Good luck,
JoAnn0 -
Hi
Sleep,
Good night sleep is a very important question.
Ativan is anti-anxiety medication. It also has anti-nausea effect. It was prescribed to me to combat steroids and against nausea during Chemo. Initially I took it in parallel with steroids (7 days), but after 4th Chemo (I had 6) every night. Weight loss was a big concern for me, I did not take my chances. It is not a sleeping medication, while should be used for anxiety.
Ambien is a sleeping pill. Even it is claimed as not addictive one can develop dependency.I am on and off this medication for 2 years now. For me sleep provided necessary rest after the surgery (mastectomy) and during Chemo.Having 6 to 8 hours was critical to me. I did not have energy to search for insomnia techniques during Chemo. I did insomnia research and treatment after I healed and finished Chemo and Radiation.
I also tried Lunesta. It did give me bad dreams.
Melatonin 3 mg works ok, however gives me about 6 hours only.
Acupuncture and relaxation massages are NOT covered by most insurances. I found therapist who was internal medicine MD , however acupuncture sessions were out of pocket. I also had trigger point injections with Lidocain. Both It did helped my a lot
Teas were recommended for me by my cardiologist. I took her suggestions and have been experimenting myself.
Good luck,
Let us know how do you feel.
New Flower0 -
Pennycarkris said:I took ativan at diagnosis
I took ativan at diagnosis and during chemo at night. It is also an antinausea. I found that I got used to it and had to increase my dosage. then I had to wean off it. I would still do it again it was very helpful. Now I take ambien twice a week. prior to working so I can get good sleep and be able to think. ativan is a 6-8 hour drug.
This was/is just me. You should consult your doc. I am still experimenting with the teas that New Flower sent me. she has given me good advice.
Thank you for your kind words. Please continue teas. When you use to taste you will like it. Please do not give up.
Hugs,
New Flower0 -
My sleep Cocktailjoannstar said:I had trouble sleeping
on chemo--Taxotere/Cytoxan and Taxol/Cytoxan (but I admit that I always have difficulty sleeping and usually only get about 5 hours a night). My onc gave me ambien CR 12.5 mg and I took it with 2 benedryl which consistently gave me between 6 and 7.5 hours sleep a night. I am still taking it (8 weeks out of chemo) during rads (1/2 through). I feel like I am finally able to get some sleep which I know is important for the healing process. Sometimes I have weird dreams but don't seem to have any other side effects.
Speak with your onc--he's the only one who can tell you what will be ok with your chemo cocktail.
Good luck,
JoAnn
My recipe for a good night's sleep has been, and remains: Trazadone, Seroquel and Ativan! Now I am not telling you to go out and take these meds! Please do not do that!! These are the meds that work for my body and the illnesses that plague it.
I just finished up Chemo (Yaay) and had little trouble with sleep. I hope you find something soon that will allow you a restful sleep.
Be Well,
Dianne0 -
Hope some of this helps--long
You are so smart to be concerned. I always believe that, in many cases, less medicine is the best medicine.
Ativan is physically addicting and will need to be weaned gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms. "Withdrawal may cause numerous undesirable symptoms including anxiety, depression, nausea/vomiting, and rebound insomnia; therefore, gradual tapering of the dose is recommended."
The chief concerns with ambien are anterograde amnesia (inability to permanently store memories), daytime drowsiness (driving is a major concern--do NOT drive if you have not had at least 8 hrs of sleep after taking ambien), and rebound insomnia.
Insomnia in Adults: Etiology and Management
I believe that sleep medications are invaluable in certain situations: while undergoing certain therapies, travel, extreme stress, etc. But it is best to realize that these should be temporary solutions and should not be taken for more than about 2 weeks time.
Insomnia is something that my family tends to have to deal with and probably why I am a prolific reader (my way of coping--not the best way for many). Earplugs and a white noise machine are very helpful for me.
General Sleep Hygiene Measures
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sleep hygiene measures may help promote sleep. Sleep hygiene measures relate to health practices and environmental influences on sleep:
Wake up at the same time each day.
Discontinue caffeine intake four to six hours before bedtime and minimize total daily use. Caffeine is a stimulant and may disrupt sleep.
Avoid nicotine, especially near bedtime and on night awakenings. It is also a stimulant.
Avoid the use of alcohol in the late evening to facilitate sleep onset. Alcohol can cause awakening later in the night.
Avoid heavy meals too close to bedtime, since this may interfere with sleep. A light snack may be sleep-inducing.
Regular exercise in the late afternoon may deepen sleep. Vigorous exercise within three to four hours of bedtime may interfere with sleep.
Minimize noise, light and excessive temperatures during the sleep period.
Move the alarm clock away from the bed if it is a source of distraction.
Insomnia: Assessment and Management in Primary Care
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Daylight saving time (DST)— today a big challengeCypressCynthia said:Hope some of this helps--long
You are so smart to be concerned. I always believe that, in many cases, less medicine is the best medicine.
Ativan is physically addicting and will need to be weaned gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms. "Withdrawal may cause numerous undesirable symptoms including anxiety, depression, nausea/vomiting, and rebound insomnia; therefore, gradual tapering of the dose is recommended."
The chief concerns with ambien are anterograde amnesia (inability to permanently store memories), daytime drowsiness (driving is a major concern--do NOT drive if you have not had at least 8 hrs of sleep after taking ambien), and rebound insomnia.
Insomnia in Adults: Etiology and Management
I believe that sleep medications are invaluable in certain situations: while undergoing certain therapies, travel, extreme stress, etc. But it is best to realize that these should be temporary solutions and should not be taken for more than about 2 weeks time.
Insomnia is something that my family tends to have to deal with and probably why I am a prolific reader (my way of coping--not the best way for many). Earplugs and a white noise machine are very helpful for me.
General Sleep Hygiene Measures
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sleep hygiene measures may help promote sleep. Sleep hygiene measures relate to health practices and environmental influences on sleep:
Wake up at the same time each day.
Discontinue caffeine intake four to six hours before bedtime and minimize total daily use. Caffeine is a stimulant and may disrupt sleep.
Avoid nicotine, especially near bedtime and on night awakenings. It is also a stimulant.
Avoid the use of alcohol in the late evening to facilitate sleep onset. Alcohol can cause awakening later in the night.
Avoid heavy meals too close to bedtime, since this may interfere with sleep. A light snack may be sleep-inducing.
Regular exercise in the late afternoon may deepen sleep. Vigorous exercise within three to four hours of bedtime may interfere with sleep.
Minimize noise, light and excessive temperatures during the sleep period.
Move the alarm clock away from the bed if it is a source of distraction.
Insomnia: Assessment and Management in Primary Care
Cynthia,
Thanks for hygiene tips. I am also a proponent of minimum medicine.
However I believed that when I was going through the hell of cancer treatment, including after-mastectomy pain, nausea, and hot flashes and night sweats from Chemo induced menopause, the various medications were right choice for me.
Having a minimum of 6 hours sleep every day was crucial for healing and ability to function for me. It is my sincere believe that if person cannot fix insomnia without drugs for successful cancer treatment one should discuss medications with medical team. According to my oncologist, insomnia is a side effect of Chemo and anti-estrogen treatment. Nothing wrong in taking sleeping pills if it helps with side effects of cancer treatment.
As always it is a personal choice which everyone should discuss with your medical team and try what is works for individual.
Daylight saving time (DST)— Will be a big CHallenge for me.
Wishing everyone a restful night sleep,
New Flower0 -
I never meant that oneNew Flower said:Daylight saving time (DST)— today a big challenge
Cynthia,
Thanks for hygiene tips. I am also a proponent of minimum medicine.
However I believed that when I was going through the hell of cancer treatment, including after-mastectomy pain, nausea, and hot flashes and night sweats from Chemo induced menopause, the various medications were right choice for me.
Having a minimum of 6 hours sleep every day was crucial for healing and ability to function for me. It is my sincere believe that if person cannot fix insomnia without drugs for successful cancer treatment one should discuss medications with medical team. According to my oncologist, insomnia is a side effect of Chemo and anti-estrogen treatment. Nothing wrong in taking sleeping pills if it helps with side effects of cancer treatment.
As always it is a personal choice which everyone should discuss with your medical team and try what is works for individual.
Daylight saving time (DST)— Will be a big CHallenge for me.
Wishing everyone a restful night sleep,
New Flower
I never meant that one shouldn't take the sleep meds while on chemo (especially steroids). Just wanted everyone to be aware that, in most cases, the meds should be a temporary fix. That comes from my heart, because, with my insomnia, it would be so easy to go down that path.
Actually, it sounds as if Sleepquestion is managing her meds very well, but my take was she just wanted to know more about them. Sorry, if my response caused any misunderstanding.0 -
I was given sleeping pillsRague said:Talk to your Dr.
I didn't have any problems with sleeping while on A/C but Taxol I did. The Center suggested Tylenol PM or Benadryl - neither worked for me. My Chemo Dr gave me Temazepam but it only gave me about 2 hrs sleep and horrible nightmares (i normally never have nightmares). My PA switched me to Ambien and it worked great. I still have a script over a year later for it 'just in case' I can't sleep some night - happens occasionally. For me, the Dex was not a problem - I was on it for 2 weeks last Oct/Nov for pain/pressure in and around right eye and had no sleep issues during that time. We are all so different - what's 'right' for one is not necessarily right for someone else.
Talk to your Dr.
Susan
I was given sleeping pills to take and did for awhile, but, found that by exercising that it wore me out enough to sleep without them.
Good luck and hope you start getting some sleep,
Diane0 -
I had Ativan for awhile andNew Flower said:Hi
Sleep,
Good night sleep is a very important question.
Ativan is anti-anxiety medication. It also has anti-nausea effect. It was prescribed to me to combat steroids and against nausea during Chemo. Initially I took it in parallel with steroids (7 days), but after 4th Chemo (I had 6) every night. Weight loss was a big concern for me, I did not take my chances. It is not a sleeping medication, while should be used for anxiety.
Ambien is a sleeping pill. Even it is claimed as not addictive one can develop dependency.I am on and off this medication for 2 years now. For me sleep provided necessary rest after the surgery (mastectomy) and during Chemo.Having 6 to 8 hours was critical to me. I did not have energy to search for insomnia techniques during Chemo. I did insomnia research and treatment after I healed and finished Chemo and Radiation.
I also tried Lunesta. It did give me bad dreams.
Melatonin 3 mg works ok, however gives me about 6 hours only.
Acupuncture and relaxation massages are NOT covered by most insurances. I found therapist who was internal medicine MD , however acupuncture sessions were out of pocket. I also had trigger point injections with Lidocain. Both It did helped my a lot
Teas were recommended for me by my cardiologist. I took her suggestions and have been experimenting myself.
Good luck,
Let us know how do you feel.
New Flower
I had Ativan for awhile and it mainly just relaxed me, but, I also got a good nights sleep on it. I haven't used it in quite awhile as I believe it can be addictive.
Lex0 -
Cypress Cynthia...Love the info you provide...CypressCynthia said:I never meant that one
I never meant that one shouldn't take the sleep meds while on chemo (especially steroids). Just wanted everyone to be aware that, in most cases, the meds should be a temporary fix. That comes from my heart, because, with my insomnia, it would be so easy to go down that path.
Actually, it sounds as if Sleepquestion is managing her meds very well, but my take was she just wanted to know more about them. Sorry, if my response caused any misunderstanding.
Love the info you provide. it's Always sooo thorough with supporting reference material. Thanks Bunches. keep it coming.
Mitzi ;0)0 -
I started taking ambienMitzi333 said:Cypress Cynthia...Love the info you provide...
Love the info you provide. it's Always sooo thorough with supporting reference material. Thanks Bunches. keep it coming.
Mitzi ;0)
I started taking ambien after chemo, as previously stated I took ativan. The ativan helped with the anxiety that was stopping me from sleeping. Mind gets the better of me at night.
Now Ihave hot flashes at night, and at work have got to be on my toes(nurse). So I take it before I work (twice a week). hopefully I can switch to something more natural, but for now I need it to get through. Recovery can be challenging too.
CC you always give great advice, no one was offended.0 -
Just checked again and another nice collection of things to think about--many thanks everyone! It truly is a challenge with chemo and how much medicine to take, but very helpful and comforting to hear the stories and not feel I'm crazy for asking... Blessings! --Sleepquestioncarkris said:I started taking ambien
I started taking ambien after chemo, as previously stated I took ativan. The ativan helped with the anxiety that was stopping me from sleeping. Mind gets the better of me at night.
Now Ihave hot flashes at night, and at work have got to be on my toes(nurse). So I take it before I work (twice a week). hopefully I can switch to something more natural, but for now I need it to get through. Recovery can be challenging too.
CC you always give great advice, no one was offended.0 -
My "recipe"Sleepquestion said:Just checked again and another nice collection of things to think about--many thanks everyone! It truly is a challenge with chemo and how much medicine to take, but very helpful and comforting to hear the stories and not feel I'm crazy for asking... Blessings! --Sleepquestion
First of all ... if your body tells you it needs rest or more sleep ... listen to it!
I found that I needed a lot more sleep while I was having chemo and radiation. Now that I'm just on tamoxifen ... my body still seems to need more sleep than it did before my diagnosis. To be honest I usually go to bed around 8 PM (get up at 6:30 AM to get ready for work). My night-time pills include a xanax and a benadryl. When I go to bed I sort of "meditate" ... but not really. It's just that I have "trained myself" to get in bed and really, really relax ... and unwind. I don't know how long I do it ... maybe 20 minutes or so ... with my eyes closed ... and I find that I hardly move. I'm just there ... on my back ... legs stretched out ... totally relaxed. (Some times I count slowly to help get relaxed). Eventually my body tells me it's time to go to sleep and I roll over on my side ... and I'm asleep in just a few minutes and sleep soundly through the night.
Anyway ... it works for me ...
hugs.
teena0
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