Overusing over the counter meds

[emcg96]

Hi everyone. I have just joined today as it was recommended by a friend and I feel a bit embarrassed to talk about my “problems”. Around 3 years ago I discovered Nytol (diphenhydramine) and have been taking them pretty much every day since to help me nap and sleep on a night time. I struggle with both anxiety and depression and sometimes sleep feels like the best solution to problems. I always seem to wake up happier. I take around 5 one a night tablets which I know is bad but I’ve had to up my dose as I’ve been using them for so long. I just wanted to hear if anyone else had an experience like this with nytol. I’m quite embarrassed about how dependent I am on them and have started to be recognised in the chemist so have tried to swap chemists. Any personal experiences would make me feel less alone. (Ps I don’t use them to get a high or anything like that, just to sleep).

[Hidden]

Hello & Welcome

Do not feel embarrassed we have all done things and unintentionally not realising what may happen and when it is something we can get over the counter we do not even start out thinking these could get addictive

But you should feel proud that you have realised what you have done , know it is not right , come and spoke about it and that is a positive

You know you are taking to many and you need tos top so you have made the first move by admitting it

I would drop one of every night one at a time so maybe cut down one for a week you may feel it but when you think you are ready cute down another and so on till you are not overusing them anymore

I know you may not like the idea but trust me Doctors have heard everything and I think speaking to your Doctor about this would be a good idea as getting professional help with your anxiety and depression is much better and they will help you

So many people suffer today and it is nothing to be ashamed of but the sooner you get the right support the better , I really hope you make an appointment

You now always have these Communities to come and talk and you will soon realise you are not alone and I hope that will help you to x

[lynstone60]

Hi .I totally agree with bekind28.Yes you take to many but please don't feel embarrassed about this and yes your doctor will help you for sure .I am taking amitriptyline for nerve pain in my back but these help me to sleep aswell as they make you feel drowsy,I'm not saying rush out and get amitriptyline as these are only on prescription anyway ,but their is help out for for us who have trouble sleeping ...Good luck and I hope you get it sorted x🌹

[Steburn]

Thank you for sharing. I too have been over using Nytol and your post has helped me to commit to making a change- starting today.