Is Frequent Yawning a Side Effect of My Medication?

Is frequent yawning a side effect of medication?

Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis.
Over the past two years of medication treatment, I took one Celebrex daily for the first year and a half, and then increased to two Salazopyrin daily for the last six months, occasionally adding Celebrex when I experience pain.
In the past few months, I have noticed that I seem to yawn frequently and feel sleepier during the day than before (although my overall energy level is not extremely low).
Other than that, I haven't experienced any significant side effects from the medication.
I usually go to bed around midnight and wake up between 8 and 9 AM.
I would like to ask Dr.
Gao if my yawning could be a side effect of the medication and if there is anything specific I should be aware of.
(I feel like I have been taking quite a lot of medication over these two years.) Thank you, Doctor.

Hao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/30

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your question.
I believe it is unrelated to the medication, as these drugs rarely have yawning as a side effect.
I recommend maintaining a regular schedule, avoiding staying up late, and exercising regularly, which is especially important for ankylosing spondylitis, as it can help stabilize your condition.
This is from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, caring for you.

Reply Date: 2022/12/30

More Info

Frequent yawning can indeed be a side effect of certain medications, and it’s important to consider the specific drugs you are taking, as well as your overall health condition. In your case, as a patient with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), you mentioned taking medications such as Celebrex (celecoxib) and possibly other pain management medications. While yawning itself is a normal physiological response, excessive yawning can sometimes be linked to medication side effects, fatigue, or even underlying health issues.

Possible Causes of Frequent Yawning
1. Medication Side Effects: Some medications, particularly those that affect the central nervous system, can lead to increased drowsiness or fatigue, which may manifest as frequent yawning. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Celebrex are generally not known to cause yawning directly, but if you are taking other medications, such as muscle relaxants or sedatives, these could contribute to your symptoms.

2. Fatigue: Chronic conditions like ankylosing spondylitis can lead to fatigue due to pain, inflammation, and the body’s ongoing efforts to manage these issues. If you are feeling more tired than usual, this could explain your increased yawning.

3. Sleep Quality: You mentioned that you sleep from around midnight to 8-9 AM. While this gives you a reasonable amount of sleep, the quality of that sleep is crucial. Conditions like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome, which can be more common in individuals with chronic pain, might disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to daytime drowsiness and yawning.

4. Anxiety or Stress: Sometimes, increased yawning can be a response to anxiety or stress. If you are feeling more anxious about your health or treatment, this could also contribute to your symptoms.

Recommendations
1. Consult Your Physician: It’s essential to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider. They can review your medication regimen and determine if any changes are necessary. They may also consider whether your current medications are appropriate for your condition and if they could be contributing to your symptoms.

2. Monitor Your Sleep: Keep a sleep diary to track your sleep patterns, quality, and any disturbances. This information can be valuable for your doctor in assessing whether sleep issues might be contributing to your daytime drowsiness.

3. Evaluate Your Medications: If you are taking multiple medications, it’s worth discussing with your doctor the potential for drug interactions or cumulative side effects. Sometimes, simplifying a medication regimen can alleviate side effects.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider incorporating regular physical activity, which can improve energy levels and overall well-being. Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene—such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding stimulants before bedtime—can enhance sleep quality.

5. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Dehydration and poor nutrition can also lead to fatigue. Ensure you are drinking enough water and consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

In conclusion, while frequent yawning can be a side effect of medication, it is essential to consider other factors such as fatigue, sleep quality, and overall health. Engaging in a dialogue with your healthcare provider will help you address these concerns effectively and ensure that your treatment plan is optimized for your needs.

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