No REM sleep

[jillybean1960]

I recently had a sleep study done and it showed no apnea, no REM and on average waking up 18 times an hour.  I was but on Nuvigil 150mg and have been taking for 4 days but I don't want to take it anymore for several reasons.  One it only lasts about 6 hrs and then I hit a wall.  The second reason is I just feel creepy inside and my hrt rate on average is up 15-20 bpm.  I just called the Doc to tell them about it and they are supposed to call back.  Does anyone have any suggestions as to a good med to keep you awake without the creepy feeling?  I am also on ambien 10mg and took it the night of the sleep study and on days off I can sleep up to 14hrs.  I just want a life again.

[kenneltech]

Have they checked you for other sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy?  One of the reasons you aren't getting any REM is because you wake up before you get to the REM stage.  I agree with you about calling your doctor regarding this Nuvigil, as it is a common side effect that your pulse rate go up with this drug, but it's an uncomfortable feeling.

You haven't told us what other tests your doctor has run?  And, do you do shift work?  Also, watch out for any type of rash at all, and discontinue this drug IMMEDIATELY and call your doctor or go to the nearest ER, it can cause Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, which is serious.

Another thing is, did your doctor do a complete check of your heart before putting you on this medication?  It can have some serious affects with certain heart problems, such as mitral valve prolapse, etc.  You need a thorough work-up, this drug is fairly new and the long term effects of it are not known.  I would tell my doctor that I was uncomfortable taking this medication until a thorough check-up was done, and I would demand more sleep studies be done.  

Good luck.

[sstitanic2]

It sounds like a reaction to the meds. If you can quit them I would until you speak to the doctors. It may take a few trys before you get on the right meds and the right doses.
Good luck and God Bless