Update on labs and question!

Thanks for the info. Is the patch doctor prescribed or is that something you can get over the counter?

If you do find research on sleeping issues please let me know!

I've taken Ambien before.

The trick is you need to be IN BED. Don't take this drug and stay up and do things. Take it when your ready to sleep.

Good luck.

What iron supplement are you using? I take proferrin. My iron tanked a while back (also 8, I think). Using ferritin I got it back up to 35 a few months ago. I upped my dose and just had my iron checked again today. I am eager to see if the ferritin has increased.

I have just been taking ferrous sulfate 325mg with prenantal

Hi Lishamc1:

I have had terrible problems with insomnia for many, many years most likely related to my severe depression.

At one point, prior to RNY, I was taking 10 mg of Ambien at night and sleeping only a few hours each night. But, I found out later that I was getting up while I guess I was still partly sleeping and raiding the refrigerator! I would also be hung over in the morning and find it difficult to drive to work because I was drowsing off while driving. So no more Ambien for me!

Since I had RNY, I am even more sensitive to the sedating effects of medications. The problem is that I sleep well for a few hours and then I'm up for the rest of the night with a fuzzy brain so I can't get things done. Also, every 4-6 weeks, I have to take phone calls at night for work so I can't risk taking any medication for sleep.

Chronic sleep deprivation is miserable, though. It wreaks havoc with concentration and eating habits!

If you decide to try the Ambien, start with a low dose and try it on a weekend and not a work night.

---Joyce

Thanks for the advice. Last night was the 2nd time taking the Ambien and hardly slept at all. Both times I havent woke up groggy. Ive tried all of the otc sleep aids and none of them help. Usually I sleep 1 to 2 hours and then I'm wide awake.