tip for insomnia after transplant

[mk]

Hi - I've found threads before from others like me who can't sleep due to the post-transplant drugs. I have tried something recommended by a naturapath that my nephrologist was comfortable for me to try and I wanted to pass on the tip in case it helps someone else. Of course, you'll want to research it for yourself and talk to your own nephrologist.
I had trouble getting to sleep - would lie there wide awake, too wired, and end up staying up until 2 or 3am. Once I got to sleep I'd be fine. Anyway he recommended and I have used it for about 6 weeks now and it's helped. Reduced about 4 nights a week of trouble to maybe one night in 2 weeks. It's Melatonin SAP. 3mg, made by NFH. I almost didn't take it since it actually says on the container, not to use if you are taking immunosuppressants. But my nephrologist said it was OK, and it would not hurt me. It's commonly used for jet lag. Anyway helped me. It's so nice to sleep better again. Makes a big difference day-to-day. Let me know if anyone has tried it.
Cheers. Mary

[kellyt]

If you're on Prednisone, that will cause insomnia.  It will get better.  When I couldn't sleep I just got up and did stuff or watched TV.  When you can't sleep it's best not to just lay there.  I never took any medication for insomnia.  I was on enough medications already.  Good Luck.

[okarol]

I don't have ESRD but I know dialysis and transplant patients often suffer from insomnia (Jenna included.) I often cannot sleep and use Benadyl and/or Melatonine. Works great for me. Good advice to run it by your doctor before adding any over-the-counter meds.

[BrandyChloe]

Interesting. I'll keep it in mind! Thanks.

[jbeany]

My saving grace for those nights is a low tolerance for pain killers.  Two extra strength tylenol and I'm out in 15 minutes.

[fluffy]

surprisingly, i find that camomile tea can help with insomnia a little bit if you steep it for a long time