SSRIs and Sleep Aids?

[greeny]

Is it okay to take an OTC sleep aid, like Unisom, when I'm on Lexapro (10 mg)?

We are taking a long road trip and will be sleeping in a hotel along the way. I have a dreadful time sleeping in hotels, and used to take a Unisom to help me drift off. Now that I'm on Lexapro I'm not sure if it's okay.

Any thoughts?

[kamilla626]

I think that's fine, but I would call your pharmacist just to double check.

Also, most "sleep aids" are just diphenhydramine, which is Benadryl. Buying Benadryl is usually a lot cheaper. I work in the mental health field, and a lot of people (kids and adults) that I've worked with are on Benadryl as a sleep aid because it's safer than a lot of other options.

[naturalmom08]

Nor sure on this, and wouldn't really be comfortable advising if I did think I knew. I'd try checking with your doctor first. Also, you might consider trying a more natural sleep supplement if you're worried. There are some really great ones that work very well, and have less in them and are more natural than some of the prescription ones. Tranquil Sleep is a good one, and has melatonin, 5-HTP, and L-Theanine. You'd still need to check with a doctor to make sure it won't interact with the Lexapro, because herbs can interact with things as well. But I think it works well. You can also find single herb sleep supplements that might be better in your situation (like taking just melatonin or something similar).

[perl]

I've been taking Unisom and Zoloft for quite awhile now with no adverse effects. A quick call to a pharmacist (like a PP suggested) to confirm would probably ease your mind, though!