re: What is the best over the counter sleep aids?

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ZMA

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stuff is great. read about it a few months ago and no longer take unisom. it knocks me out great

Try deep breathing techniques. Think of nothing else but the breathing. Think of it as if it's the ocean going in and out. It's basically meditation. I know it sounds silly, but it works.

If not, alka seltzer night works great

Melatonin is the only thing I can take that doesn't make me feel groggy the next morning/day.

If you don't have to get up early, then Nyquil. I bought he Walgreens generic brand one time and I think that one knocked me out even better.

Advil PM knocks my arse out.

marijuana

Try melatonin 30 min before going to sleep. The most effective is the formulation that includes fast and extended release melatonin in one tablet. It's safe to use for a month or so while you work on getting back on track.

Avoid the non-melatonin sleep aids; they are all just antihistamines with many side effects. They can impair your judgement during the morning commute. If you have to use them frequently they cause dry eyes/mouth, constipation, urinary retention, even erectile problems.

Try to identify the cause. Many sleepless folks end up taking a prescription sedative/hypnotic when the problem is just bad habits or an underlying health problem. Avoid TV and looking at phone/tablet 30 minutes before bed. Eat dinner early. Decrease alcohol and caffeine use, increase exercise/sex. Turn off all the lights and turn on some white noise. Try to get into a routine.

If all that plus melatonin doesn't work, get checked by your Dr for other problems. Hopefully you can avoid taking antihistamines or a prescription.

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most all are benadryl based....diphenhydramine one that is not is Unisom sleep TABS...doxylamine succinate works pretty good for me and not as much groggy mornings

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Doxylamine is great. Benadryl also works pretty good. Don't buy the ones marketed as sleep aids though, as they are more expensive. Just look for the active ingredient and buy the cheapest version.

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melatonin is usually good to help people relax. Your body produces it naturally

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I tried this last night for the first time. I fell asleep in record time, but woke around 2 a.m., and had trouble going back to sleep. If that happens again, should I take another dose? 1 mg tablets.