Sleep Aids

Question 1

Melatonin

Answer 1

Not good for people with asthma

Good for mild insomnia- people sleeping more than 5 hours uninterrupted, for example

Can increase nightmares, but rarely

Question 2

Trazodone

Answer 2

Pros
Depression
Anxiety
Sleep
Nightmares
Low on weight gain

Cons
possible carryover sedation

Question 3

Diphenhydramine/Benadryl

Answer 3

Pros
Not likely to cause dependence
Prevents antipsychotic induced DIP
Available OTC

Cons
Increased likelihood of anticholinergic ADRs if the person also takes Atarax
May not work as well as ambien or other sleep aids

Question 4

Eszopiclone/Lunesta

Answer 4

Pros
Safe for long term treatment
Good for insomnia with residual depression symptoms

Cons
Expensive
MediCal will not approve until you try ambien first