Posted by ed_uk2010 on December 3, 2013, at 13:22:02
In reply to Re: how did I induce akathisia? » ed_uk2010, posted by g_g_g_unit on December 3, 2013, at 7:25:42
>Do other beta blockers tend to mess up sleep like propranolol?
Propranolol is probably the worst in this respect, and sometimes causes nightmares. Atenolol doesn't affect sleep but probably wouldn't help. I expect metoprolol would be more tolerable than propranolol but there's still a risk of it affecting your sleep.
If you're near a supermarket, you could get some Chamomile tea (German Chamomile seems to be the variety that helps sleep). For sure, it will do you no harm, and avoids caffeine intake - not what you need when tense.
>Valium, it was hard to tell if it was making things better or worse.
I think it might help, but you'd obviously need to be very cautious. Some people find that paradoxical reactions disappear with dose adjustment, either up or down (confusingly). Diazepam has more of a noticeable muscle relaxant effect than other benzos. It is more sleep inducing than Ativan, but this could be appropriate during your current situation, allowing you to get some rest. Diazepam should ideally be limited to about 2 weeks of treatment. After short term use, tapering is rarely difficult (in stark contrast to after long term use).
>Out of desperation, I almost bought a codeine-based painkiller today, since I figured that might help the restlessness and tension, though am I just asking for more trouble?
It certainly might help, but opioids are very addictive. I advise great caution, with no more than 3 days of use - for the jaw tension/pain. For sure, avoid any products which also contain caffeine.
>I'll see what my doctor has to say! You've given me some good ideas, so thank you for all your help.
You're welcome. Hope you can see your doctor very soon. And I still believe these new symptoms will end fairly soon, even without treatment, it's just a case of getting through the interim period.
poster:ed_uk2010
thread:1055049
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20131115/msgs/1055350.html