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Re-activateI took eszopiclone (Lunesta), then zolpidem (Ambien and generic), for my chronic insomnia, but each stopped working after awhile. Now my doctor is recommending I take both pills together. Is that safe? —B.F., via e-mail
Probably not. While combining those drugs increases the likelihood of falling asleep, it also increases your risk of side effects, including daytime sleepiness, dependency, dizziness, memory problems, rebound insomnia, sleepwalking, and even sleep-driving. And we could find no studies documenting the safety of that regimen. Instead, make sure your doctor has evaluated you for an underlying condition that could hinder sleep, including anxiety, arthritis, depression, heart disease, or sleep apnea. In addition to treating any underlying problems, consider non-drug measures to improve sleep, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, which research has shown to be at least as effective as drugs. For more information, go to www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org and search for "insomnia."
This article first appeared in the May 2008 issue of Consumer Reports On Health.
Read the latest Best Buy Drugs report on insomnia drugs, and check out our new report and survey on America's sleeping habits.
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