Affordable Sleep Aid Options for Nervous Patients: A Handbook for Those Struggling to Sleep
A college graduate's struggle with sleep during the pandemic
During the pandemic, I, like many others, found myself desperate for a good night's sleep. Prior to the pandemic, I never had trouble sleeping. However, a few months into lockdown last year, I suddenly encountered insomnia. My mind was racing with worries, and the longer I stayed in bed, the more anxious I became about not sleeping. This vicious cycle left me exhausted, and I eventually felt depressed.
My search for a sleep aid that would work without causing unwanted side effects was arduous. My first attempt was hydroxyzine, an antihistamine, but it left me groggy the following morning. Exhausted and disheartened, I put off visiting a doctor. Instead, I resorted to a combination of over-the-counter melatonin, my husband's gabapentin, and some sketchy pills I purchased on a trip. As the stress of the pandemic and other life issues piled up, my sleep worsened.
Eventually, I found a doctor who took my concerns seriously and prescribed me bupropion, an antidepressant. While it helped somewhat, my nighttime anxiety remained a problem. We added buspirone, an anti-anxiety medication, to the mix, but this proved to be a mistake. I began experiencing hallucinations in the middle of the night, which was terrifying. After investigating, I learned this side effect was linked to taking buspirone.
In my research for a story, I discovered a new class of insomnia medications called DORA drugs, such as Belsomra (suvorexant). It worked well when it did work, but the cost was exorbitant, even with insurance. After a struggle, my insurance provider eventually agreed to cover the medication, but I still had to pay a hefty amount monthly.
In consideration of more affordable options for treating sleep disorders, there are alternatives worth exploring. One of these includes Quviviq (daridorexant), another orexin receptor antagonist that may offer a similar efficacy profile as Belsomra. Ramelteon (Rozerem), a melatonin receptor agonist, is FDA-approved for treating insomnia in adults and can help regulate sleep-wake cycles. Silenor (doxepin), a tricyclic antidepressant, is often used off-label for insomnia, specifically when staying asleep is difficult. Z-drugs, including zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta), are effective for short-term insomnia treatment.
Melatonin supplements, valerian, and lifestyle changes can also aid in improving sleep quality without medication. Ensuring a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and electronics before bedtime, and maintaining a comfortable sleep environment are essential aspects of improving sleep hygiene. When available, generic versions of prescriptions can be more cost-effective.
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding sleep disorder treatment. Discuss your needs and potential side effects to find the most effective option. Non-pharmacological approaches, like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), may also be effective and cost-efficient in the long term.
Throughout this process, I have realized the importance of accessible healthcare and the ability to explore various treatment options. It's disheartening to think of those who are struggling with sleep issues and do not have access to the same privileges. Hopefully, one day everyone will have access to affordable and effective treatments for sleep disorders. Until then, I'll continue my search for better solutions.
In my search for affordable solutions to manage my sleep disorder, I discovered alternative insomnia medications such as Quviviq (daridorexant) and Ramelteon (Rozerem). These medications, while not as expensive as DORA drugs like Belsomra, may offer similar efficacy profiles. Furthermore, generic versions of prescriptions can be more cost-effective, ensuring that those struggling with sleep issues have access to necessary medications. Lastly, it's essential to consider non-pharmacological approaches, like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which can be effective and cost-efficient in the long term, making them accessible to those who may not have access to various treatment options.
