Posted by Ame Sans Vie on October 28, 2003, at 6:51:15
In reply to Temazepam Dependent?, posted by cbwarejr on October 28, 2003, at 6:04:25
Hi there,
First of all, don't worry about her committing suicide with the sleeping medications alone. Overdose is nearly impossible with Ambien, Sonata, Imovane, and benzodiazepines. Just watch and make sure she doesn't have *anything* to drink while under their influence.
There really isn't a big problem with taking sleep meds long-term, provided that tolerance doesn't develop. This especially applies to Ambien and Sonata, which often continue working indefinitely without development of tolerance. And on many of these antidepressants (especially Parnate, which has amphetamine-like action) I can totally understand her need for a hypnotic before bed. I would say to just watch her carefully and be there for her.
Also, I'm not sure what the situation is surrounding her discontinuation of Parnate, but I would see about getting her back on that medication, pronto. Just to make sure, has she tried Nardil? It could be just as effective as Parnate (both being MAO-inhibiting antidepressants) and may not keep her up at night. Eldepryl, at doses higher than those used to treat Parkinson's disease (i.e. 15-25mg) could also be very helpful.
Good luck!
poster:Ame Sans Vie
thread:274180
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031025/msgs/274186.html