If you're like most people with depression, you've probably had trouble sleeping at some point. In fact, insomnia is one of the most common symptoms of depression. And if you're taking Lexapro (escitalopram), a common antidepressant, insomnia may be a side effect. But don't despair. There are things you can do to help you sleep better. And there are also some sleep aids that are safe to take with Lexapro. Here are a few tips to help you sleep better:
Stick to a regular sleep schedule as much as possible. This means going to bed and getting up at the same time each day, including on weekends.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine. This could include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to soothing music.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. Caffeine can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Alcohol may make you feel drowsy at first, but it can actually disrupt your sleep later in the night.
Get some exercise during the day. Exercise can help improve your sleep quality. But avoid working out right before bed, as this can make it harder to fall asleep.
Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. These conditions can help promote better sleep.
If these tips don't help, there are also some safe sleep aids you can take with Lexapro. The most common one is diphenhydramine, which is found in over-the-counter medications like Benadryl and Tylenol PM. Diphenhydramine works by blocking histamine receptors, which can help you feel sleepy.
If you're struggling to sleep while taking Lexapro, don't despair. Many people experience insomnia as a result of taking this antidepressant. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to combat the sleepless nights.
Your first step should be to talk to your doctor about your insomnia. They may be able to adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication that doesn't have such harsh side effects. If that's not possible, there are still a few sleep aids you can take that are safe to use with Lexapro.
One option is to take an over-the-counter sleep aid like Benadryl. Diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, can help you fall asleep and stay asleep for longer. However, it can also cause next-day drowsiness, so make sure you're not planning on doing anything too important the following day.
Another possibility is to try an herbal supplement like valerian root extract or melatonin. These natural remedies have fewer side effects than chemical sleep aids and can be just as effective. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before taking anything new, as some herbs can interact with other medications you're taking.
Finally, If you're still having trouble sleeping, there are some lifestyle changes you can make that may help. Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, establish a regular sleep schedule, and create a calming bedtime routine including winding down for 30 minutes before sleep.
With a little bit of trial and error, you should be able to find a sleep aid that works for you and helps you get the rest you need. Sweet dreams!
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