Elavil/sleep RYAN 7591

[kittycatpurr]

As per my December 3 post, (Atilla) I have started taking Elavil at 25 mg.  I have taken Elavil twice now.  Last night the sedating was not enough to put me to sleep.  Being that I had been taking Antivan for 6 to 8 weeks, is it possible tht the sedating properties of Elavil are lower than Antivan?  I really did like Ativan for sleeping.  It worked pretty good.  My doctor said to start with 25 mg; then I can increase to two Elavils at night.  How many nights at 25mg until you raise the dosage?  Since I couldn't sleep, I did take half of an Ativan; but I will not do this again because I woke up with a panic attack.  Not sure if it was me or the drugs tht caused the panic attack.  I haven't had one of these in quite a while.  Thanks so much.

[RCA7591]

"Being that I had been taking Antivan for 6 to 8 weeks, is it possible tht the sedating properties of Elavil are lower than Antivan?"

^quote

Yes. Six to eight weeks of chronic Ativan use will lead to a limited rebound phenomena, which may manifest with increased nervousness and insomnia. Ativan targets the neurotransmitter GABA(a), while Elavil targets the neurotransmitter Norepinephrine. Two separate neurotransmitters, with two dintinct methods of action on brain chemistry. The two are not cross-tolerant.

Thus, you may experience a brief period of mild withdrawal phenomena from the Ativan. Once this subsides, you will improve. In the mean time, remain on 25 mg of Elavil daily. In one month, increase the dosage to 25 mg, b.i.d (25 mg in the morning, and 25 mg at night). The maximum benefit will be apparent in one month. I do not suggest taking 50 mg at once, as this may result in hyperactivity and increased anxiety. You can speak with the doctor about this dosing modality.

Refrain from using any additional Ativan - flush it. If you continue to use Ativan, you will render the Elavil less effective or ineffective. Rarely, the two in combination will increase anxiety or lead to panic like reactions ( a paradoxical reaction). Continued use of Ativan will only serve to prolong your agony and insomnia, so it is best to get rid of it now.

Ryan