Concerns About Medication: Sleep Issues and Side Effects Explained

Q: Concerns About Medication: Sleep Issues and Side Effects Explained

Hello Mr. <br>Tsai： <br>Side effects of Clonazepam include fatigue, daytime drowsiness, and lassitude. <br>When taken with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, be aware of potential drug interactions, so it is advised not to consume grapefruit juice. <br>There should be no side effect

Medication Issues

Hello, Pharmacist Hou.
I apologize for bothering you.
I have recently changed my medication and have been taking Jingde and Keqianping tablets at 0.5 mg before bed.
I have been on this insomnia medication for almost four months, and recently I have experienced some drowsiness, blurred vision, and memory decline.
I went to an ophthalmologist, and the doctor said my eyes are fine.
I also mentioned these issues to the doctor at the insomnia clinic, and he said that the medication I was prescribed should not cause such symptoms.
I would like to ask if it is okay for me to continue taking the bedtime medication.
Additionally, I am taking Na Bao capsules at 0.5 grams, and I sometimes feel a tingling sensation in my head, as if blood is rushing out.
My blood pressure has been somewhat abnormal; in the morning, my systolic pressure is around 140, while my diastolic pressure is quite low, around 60 to 70.
My heart rate has also slowed down, with the lowest recorded at 53 beats per minute.
Recently, my heart rate does not exceed 70, even after walking and resting for an hour.
I am unsure if this is related to the medication.
I am somewhat reluctant to take the morning medication, as I am concerned about potential long-term effects on my health.

Cai Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/12

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology

Hello Mr.
Tsai:
Side effects of Clonazepam include fatigue, daytime drowsiness, and lassitude.
When taken with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, be aware of potential drug interactions, so it is advised not to consume grapefruit juice.
There should be no side effects on the eyes.
The capsule you mentioned contains Vitamin B12, which can help with peripheral neuropathy and may assist with your hand numbness.
Given your fluctuating blood pressure, it is best to visit a hospital for an electrocardiogram, where a physician can adjust your medication.
Currently, you can simply present your National Health Insurance card, and the doctor can access your medication history through the health insurance cloud system to check for any duplications or interactions.
Wishing you peace and joy.

Reply Date: 2016/05/12

More Info

It's understandable to have concerns about the medications you're taking, especially when experiencing side effects like drowsiness, blurred vision, and memory issues. These symptoms can significantly impact your daily life, and it's crucial to address them with your healthcare provider.

First, let's discuss the medications you're currently taking. It appears that you have been prescribed a sleep medication, likely to help manage your insomnia. While these medications can be effective, they can also come with side effects, particularly when used over an extended period. Common side effects of sleep medications include drowsiness, dizziness, and cognitive impairments, such as memory loss or confusion. It's essential to monitor how these medications affect you and communicate any changes to your doctor.

Regarding the specific medications you mentioned, such as 景德 (likely a brand name for a sleep aid) and 克癇平錠 (which may refer to Clonazepam), both can cause sedation and may lead to the symptoms you're experiencing. Clonazepam, in particular, is a benzodiazepine that can cause drowsiness and cognitive impairment, especially in older adults or those taking it for an extended period. If you've been on these medications for four months and are experiencing new symptoms, it may be time to reassess your treatment plan.

You also mentioned taking 拿保膠囊 (which could be a reference to a supplement or another medication) and experiencing a tingling sensation in your head. This sensation could be related to several factors, including anxiety, medication side effects, or even changes in blood pressure. Your reported blood pressure readings, with a systolic of 140 and a diastolic of 60-70, indicate that you may be experiencing some fluctuations that could be influenced by your medications. A slow heart rate (bradycardia) can also be a side effect of certain medications, particularly those that affect the central nervous system.

It's crucial to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about these concerns. They can help determine whether your symptoms are related to your medications or if other underlying issues need to be addressed. They may suggest adjusting your dosage, switching to a different medication, or incorporating non-pharmacological interventions to improve your sleep quality without relying solely on medication.

In addition to medication adjustments, consider implementing lifestyle changes that can enhance your sleep quality. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensuring your sleep environment is conducive to rest can all contribute to better sleep. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) can also be effective in managing sleep issues without the need for medication.

Lastly, if you have concerns about the long-term use of these medications and their potential impact on your health, don't hesitate to discuss this with your doctor. They can provide guidance on how to safely taper off medications if necessary and explore alternative treatments that may be more suitable for your situation.

In summary, while medications can be beneficial for managing sleep issues, they can also come with side effects that warrant careful monitoring. Open communication with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure that your treatment plan aligns with your health needs and lifestyle.

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