Medication Information
I have autonomic nervous system dysfunction and have been taking half a tablet of Rifampicin (the orange one) before bed as prescribed by my psychiatrist.
Yesterday, I visited an ENT specialist for tinnitus, and the doctor prescribed me a sleep aid called Brain Clear to take before bed.
Is it safe to take these two medications together? Additionally, I woke up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom and couldn't fall back asleep.
Could this be a side effect of the Brain Clear? I noticed that the leaflet mentions that a very small number of people may experience insomnia and anxiety as side effects.
Thank you.
Emily, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/20
Dr. Chen Yuemei reply Pharmacology
1.
According to the literature review, there are no reported interactions between Clonazepam and Flunarizine.
2.
Drowsiness is a more common side effect of Flunarizine, while insomnia is less frequently observed.
It is recommended to first assess and rule out psychological and lifestyle factors contributing to insomnia before considering medication factors, and to follow up with a physician for evaluation of the prescribed medications.
Reply Date: 2018/03/20
More Info
When managing sleep issues, particularly in the context of autonomic nervous system disorders, it is crucial to understand the potential interactions and side effects of the medications involved. In your case, you are taking Rifampicin (Clonazepam) and Brain Clear Tablets (Flunarizine), and you are concerned about whether these medications can be taken together and if they might be contributing to your sleep disturbances.
First, it is important to note that Rifampicin and Flunarizine do not have documented interactions that would contraindicate their concurrent use. This means that, based on current literature, taking these two medications together should not pose a significant risk of adverse interactions. However, individual responses to medications can vary widely, and it is essential to monitor how you feel while on these medications.
Regarding the side effects, both medications can have an impact on your sleep. Flunarizine is known to cause drowsiness as a common side effect, which may initially seem beneficial for sleep. However, in some cases, it can also lead to insomnia or anxiety, particularly if the body reacts differently to the medication over time. If you find that you are experiencing difficulty sleeping after taking Brain Clear Tablets, it could indeed be a side effect of the medication, even if it is less common.
The experience of waking up in the middle of the night and struggling to fall back asleep can be frustrating and may be influenced by several factors, including the medications you are taking, your underlying condition, and even lifestyle factors such as stress or anxiety. It is also worth considering that the autonomic nervous system can play a significant role in sleep regulation, and disturbances in this system may contribute to sleep issues.
If you are experiencing persistent insomnia or increased anxiety after starting the Brain Clear Tablets, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help assess whether these symptoms are indeed related to the medication or if other factors might be at play. Adjustments to your medication regimen may be necessary, and your doctor can provide guidance on how to manage these side effects effectively.
In addition to medication management, consider incorporating non-pharmacological strategies to improve your sleep quality. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment that can help address the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sleep difficulties. Relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, can also be beneficial.
In conclusion, while Rifampicin and Brain Clear Tablets do not have known interactions, it is essential to monitor your response to these medications closely. If you experience ongoing sleep disturbances, consult your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and potential adjustments to your treatment plan. Your well-being is paramount, and finding the right balance in managing your medications and sleep is crucial for your overall health.
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