Posted by Lao Tzu on August 26, 2009, at 10:16:08
I have bipolar/schizophrenia and I've had sleep problems for years. Some vitamins that help me get a good night's rest are B vitamins, specifically, B3, B6 and B12, vitamin E, and melatonin. Folic acid can help too, as well as B1 and magnesium. I've noticed that if you want to have a really good night's rest, you can try Tylenol PM rapid release gelcaps and a little melatonin. I sleep like a baby. I've tried valerian alone, but this doesn't seem to do the trick for me. There is a supplement out there that contains L-tryptophan, valerian, and melatonin in one tablet. It probably works well for most people, but for bipolars and schizophrenics it is a little more complicated. Benadryl alone makes me sleep well. I take 50mg with a little melatonin. I'm just worried that over time, it may not work as well so I only take it on nights that I'm really having a hard time getting to sleep. I'm on an antipsychotic, and this can help you sleep better at least in the initial stages. There are a few antidepressants that increase serotonin and help with sleep, for example, trazodone. However, just increasing serotonin in the brain does not help me sleep. It will help most people sleep, but not me. Bipolars have a really hard time getting to sleep, and so far Tylenol PM and melatonin have worked the best for me. B vitamins, L-tryptophan, vitamin E, melatonin, and valerian may be a good alternative for those who do not want to take drugs. Good luck in getting your zzzzz's. There is help out there for you.
poster:Lao Tzu
thread:914166
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20090727/msgs/914166.html