A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Julie Rhonemus — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:02:19 GMT

I too have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. I will probably try to find this toothpaste and give it a try. As for swallowing the toothpaste I will do that and won't worry about the plaque. The stomach acid will kill anything including the plaque from my teeth.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

stanman — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:18:01 GMT

how about all the toxic fluoride you'll get by swallowing this stuff?

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Mani — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:50:23 GMT

Do some work outs / long walking in day time, automatically you would get a good night's sleep. Go natural. This is my personal experience.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Jason — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:59:07 GMT

Sounds more like the toothpaste was designed with Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrom in mind than Insomnia. Insomnia means that you can't fall asleep or stay asleep no matter how tired you are. DSPS means that your schedule is way behind the normal and you don't get sleepy until 2:00 AM or later. I can see this helping you fall asleep, but it will never help you stay asleep through the night.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Chris — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:43:05 GMT

Why on earth would anybody use toothpaste as a sleep aid? Toothpaste is for cleaning your teeth. Sleeping pills & chamomile tea are for inducing sleep.

What's next? Caffeinated soap? Vitamin C hairspray?

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Rhonda, Seattle — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:50:09 GMT

Per their website, www.pearlydreams.net, this toothpaste does not contain fluoride. So it's really just a melatonin and valerian delivery device. I suggest you brush your teeth with an ADA recommended toothpaste and try melatonin or valerian supplements if you need help with falling asleep.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Sharon, East Moline, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:11:08 GMT

Chris, I hate to break it to you, but there's already caffeinated soap. I saw it on one of the network morning shows a few years ago. Don't know if it works though.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Captain Fluoride! — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:05:03 GMT

Even if it did contain fluoride, according to a recent episode of CSI (or some other crime show), you would have to ingest an entire tube of fluoride toothpaste, at one time, for it to harm you.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Brian Stamos, Washington, DC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:19:58 GMT

lunesta! its amazing.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

dransom — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 22:52:09 GMT

Western medicine likes to down play homeopathic remedies. Notice the doctor wants you to take a unnatural sleep remedy (sleeping pills) chemical remedies are not synonymous safe or effective remedies either. Pharmaceutical companies have been sued for the damaging effects of some of their products (ie: fin fin).

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

John Doe Re Mi — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 23:17:01 GMT

I am a serious insomniac and have been for years until I discovered melitonin. I take melatonin 5 mg capsules (you can swallow them lol)..One or two about an hour before bed and it works every time. I have tried velarian but with not the same effect. Melitonin 5 to 10 mgs works for me. Of course everyone is different and results will vary for everyone.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

jon v lr, auckland, new zealand — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 08:42:14 GMT

i think it is the conditioning of the mind that make you sleep plus herbal supplement. for over a year now i'm taking 90mls of aloe vera drinking gel made in germany and i slept 2am every night and wake up at 5am and prepare to drive for work at 6:30am.i don't need any melatonin inorder to have a goodnight sleep

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Kitty, Oceanside — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:28:56 GMT

Dransom, prescription meds may not be called "natural," but for the most part the meds we are given by doctors is not going to do any lasting harm... specifically, when taken PROPERLY. Yes, there have been lawsuits, but when something is approved for common usage, its only after YEARS of study and testing to make sure it is likely safe. This doesn't negate all bad side-effects, and it isn't fullproof... some things slip through. However, more often than not they're fine.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Maurine Gutowski, Muskegon, Michigan — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:29:42 GMT

I tried melatonin but it made me feel queer. Dr. Mercola on his website has a number of suggestions, but most important is sleeping in complete darkness to allow the body to produce melatonin. I cover my eyes to keep out light.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

brandon kokin, brooklyn, new york — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:41:30 GMT

i have the same problem here its 4:30 am right now and im up reading this crap cuz i cant sleep i saw a commercial for this 2 weeks ago and i wanted 2 try this but the thing im worried about with this toothpaste is mind over matter if i think it will work then it will so how will i really ever know if it does???

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Tracy Layton Utah — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:51:01 GMT

If your are having troubles sleeping you really need to use Megatonin. You can get it at this website. http://www.ineways.com/ranson

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

humphhrey Crichlow Willemstad Netherlands Antilles — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 10:23:46 GMT

LS,
The best way to take away is to apply a breathing technic/tactic before you go to sleep.Inhale and slowly exhale.The rush life we all have nowadays is the main factor of not be able to sleep. The brain must come to e rest position.Than it is possible to lay down. success. It works for me.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Chase Rockford, Il — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 11:26:16 GMT

I agree with Brian....Lunesta is a very good drug to help you fall asleep & stay asleep, the only problem is that most insurance companies don't cover it & the cost is expensive. Amazinly they do cover the sleeping pills doctors give you that are addictive.....hmmmmmmm what's wrong with that picture? Insurance companies should cover Lunesta.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

jasmin2872 — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 11:33:36 GMT

I have tried everything under the sun, from prescription medications, to herbal med's.. The doctors can't even figure out why I can not sleep. I can go day's w/o sleep then, bam... CRASH... you can not awake me for nothing. the house could be on fire. I would not move. you would have to drag me out! It is like I am in acoma. I do get so tired, my immune system shuts down, and wears out. but, ya know i have CF AND FIBRO. This really all started or should I say got worse when I had my hysteromy. I am 36 years old and feel like I am 80 at times, i will not let me get down, I am a strong person. My legs swell so bad with edema, and have always since I was a teenager, but hey *** its because I have had abdomal surgeries and I have scare tissue**** HAHAHA.... I would like to know why my sisters does the same extact thing when she has had no surgeries.... LOL I take what doctors say with a grain of salt and just do what the instruct me to to. when I live there is no REAL DOCTORS (SPECALIST) OR STUDY hospials near by, I thing that is why they call them PRACTING MEDICINE. THEY HAVE NO FREAKING CLUE, they just throw stuff out there or people to spend there hard earned money on stuff that may or may not work!

sincerley, would die for a normal sleep pattern!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Donna, Wilson, NC — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 11:52:41 GMT

Very interesting. BTW, some people have insomnia due to taking a multivitamin in the morning. They have a fairly predictable time of wakefulness between 2-4:00a.m.--I did. I switched to taking my multivitamin just before bed and had no more problems with it. Check with your doctor; it's worth a try!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Donna, Wilson, NC — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 11:52:41 GMT

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Tanis Judique — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 11:54:34 GMT

His-and-her full-size beds in lieu of one king. I'm serious. The oven effect has baked many relationships that could have survived with a little creative ingenuity in the bed department.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Sonpyh, Slumberland Gap, MD — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:06:54 GMT

I've developed sleeping problems as I've gotten older but I've truly had some great success with Derma Sleep. The product is a melatonin patch. It's manufactured and or distributed by Vita Sciences (NY). Because it is a patch, the melatonin does not have to go through your digestive tract before it reaches your brain. The amount of melatonin you receive is much less than in a pill and much more effective. The only words of caution I would offer are that each person has to find out just how to use it. When I first got it I only used half a patch. Then I went to a full patch. Some people wear it for hours before bed, then remove it. Some keep it on. Some don't put it on until bedtime. I found that it's effective for about eight weeks, then I have to take a break from it. With all that in mind, I highly recommend this. Here's their number: 877-888-7282. Nighty night!!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Markm Mitchell — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:08:00 GMT

Not a bad idea, although I would prefer to take a sleeping pill. One knows what would happen if you brushed your teeth three (3) times a day... a zombie state of mind!
No thanks.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Sleepless in Denver — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:17:23 GMT

L - Tryptophan (the amino acid in turkey and dairy that makes you feel sleepy after Thanksgiving meals) works great, coupled with Melatonin. Also, try Passionflower an hour before bedtime with Chamomile extract and cutting back on caffeine. Drink decaf after lunch time. I struggle with this also. Exercising in the morning or noon times are better (try to walk during lunch breaks) to help also.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Camille, Towson, MD — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:22:01 GMT

Intresting comments. Actually I agree with trying Melatonin 3-5mg as well. The key with taking it is that you have to take it early. Maybe an hour or so before it gets dark depending on which time zone you live in. Because it works just the way our bodies natural circardian clock respsonds to night and day. I have tried them all (Ambiem, Valerian, Lunesta, Sonata, Ambein CR,) Meletonin is less expensive and less side effects than the sedative-hynotic sleeping pills. Although if I have to take one from time to time as a last resort Ambien 10mg works best for me. It's important for you to get a restful night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed. Not groggy

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Jane Doe, MN — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:33:23 GMT

The one problem with Melatonin is that too much of it can cause nightmares--read a book, take a walk, hot chocolate works for me

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

rashmi, Manama — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:39:20 GMT

try this out..a warm glass of milk combined with a warm shower is sure to work for everyone!I have been using this for some ten years now.No side effects either.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

john dobe, seattle,wa — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:46:11 GMT

boy , another great invention! imagine , use this stuff, put the foot pads on your feet to detoxify, and viola`-- perfection !

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Ivan Norris Fulwell, Dallas, Texas — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:49:20 GMT

Lunesta? It's amazing alright. The side-effects from a single dose made made the sleep I got only a brief pleasantry. It took three to four days worth of finding something to eat or drink every half hour or so just to mask that awful "metal aftertaste" for the single night's dose.

Enduring three days of bitter saliva made even the mention of the drug bring back memories of that awful lingering taste.

They say that some people do not experience the taste and I thought I was going to be one of the fortunate ones until the morning after when the repugnant flavor began to worsen throughout the day and peak sometime during the second day.

I would choose a daily concussion over Lunesta providd there were no major headaches. LOL

The toothpaste sounds like so many other homeopathic stabs at "natural" wonder cures.

It reminds me of in-the-attic spray-applied "radiant barriers" that claim to save you 30% on your utility bills.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Joe, Boonville MO — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:52:42 GMT

About twenty sominex a day works for me. It'll let you sleep without dreaming (at least without remembering dreams) and that's the most restfull sleep for me.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

DSW — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:55:31 GMT

2 to 3 tablets magnesium sulfate mimmicks the body's drowsiness factor...do that instead. More natural. Anything with valerian root in it is a narcotic type of sleep, not restful,

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

RangerDan, White Lake, MI — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:00:12 GMT

The Three Stooges had a big rubber mallet that seemed to work pretty good.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Leonard F. Vincent; 1209 Park La.; Clarksdale, Mississippi — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:08:37 GMT

You know, we now live in a world that reaches for drugs to solve all problems. There is an old song, if your old enough to remember, that goes like this: "If your worried and you can't sleep, just count you "Blessings" instead of sheep, and you'll fall asleep.....counting your blessings"

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Carol, Whitestone, NY — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:29:15 GMT

When I am unable to fall asleep I take Valerian Root capsules. It works within 30 minutes.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Funderoos.com — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:30:46 GMT

This article was waaaay too long. Is Jasmine paid by the word?

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Dr. Sardone — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:36:50 GMT

I agree with Dr. Kapur that one would need to use a significant amount of toothpaste in order to obtain the desired result. Naturally, it would be more practical to swallow a capsule of melatonin. I use it personally and prescribe it to my patients, but not only to induce sleep. Melatonin is also a powerful antioxidant, and works both in the lipid (fat) and aqueous (water) parts of the cell scavenging up free radicals thereby supporting the immune system. Melatonin also stimulates the release of growth hormone, another important hormone that mediates many metabolic functions including protein synthesis and fat utilization. Melatonin’s production decreases with age and its deficiency is believed related to Alzheimer’s and other degenerative diseases. Before supplementing with this hormone it would be prudent to have your levels tested and this can be done in the comfort of your home via saliva testing.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Alice DeFontes, Pinellas Park, Fl — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:46:33 GMT

Valerian can be dangerous if you take too much, it is used in chemotherapy, has numerous side effects including liver disease, allergic reactions: rash, pruritis, shortnes of breath and on and on. I LOVED so much, I was up to 1200mg daily! It made me so HAPPY, almost manic, was fun until I began having urinary issues, skin problem with my skin, then took a deeper look into Valerian Root and discovered, sadly, that we had to part ways and we did. Use it with care, it can become "too much fun" for some.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Sleepless in NYC — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:46:50 GMT

I just smoke a fatty!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

pete kingston jamaica — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:54:38 GMT

the best way is to work out

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Gigi Gigsalot, New York — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:37:26 GMT

Iv found that retaining a normal sleep patern helps alot (schedual permiting). Homework and other things tend to disrupt that schedual. Focusing on relaxing while in bed works beter than focusing on tryng to sleep also.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

D. in Michigan — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:40:53 GMT

Melatonin did not work for me, I have taken 4 or 5 at a time. Valerian Root did not work for me, niether did Tylenol PM or any other over the counter sleep aid. I don't have caffeine after noon, and make sure to take all of my meds & vitamins before 3 (in case some of them cause me not to sleep). Besides doing those things, the only pill that works for me is Desyrel. A prescribed anti-depressant in which the side effect causes you to sleep. You don't wake up feeling groggy either. And the generic version is on the $4 list at Wal-Mart.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

D. Young — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:43:22 GMT

Naturally Dr Kapur recommends taking a drug to sleep as his answer--how else to get the kick backs from the Pharmaceutical conglomerates. After all that's what they teach in the the medical schools who--oh yes-- get large endowments from the same conglomerates.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Ken Dude San Diego — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:44:49 GMT

I too have seriously disrupted sleep patterns. Valerian works great for me. I tend to sleep for longer periods, get to sleep quicker and sleep deeper then before. Melatonin didn't seem to help much. There are plenty of homopathics blends so, give em a try!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Alberta — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:47:27 GMT

Melatonin did not work for me although perscribed by my physician; actually nothing does;I,mind & body has become accustomed to 4-5 hrs sleep; which has not impacted me in any way. The 7-8-9 hrs sleep
needed is hooey anyways. I would like to know where this can be obtained, if it can.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Arjy Bargy — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:47:28 GMT

I really wish I could feel sorry for you, in your 12th floor apt facing the ocean. The nights of sleep I now will lose, hoping you have an answer to your insomnia.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Carlos, Miami, Florida — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:57:25 GMT

The only benefit I see, is to encourage the users to brush their teeth before going to bed, using the "improved sleep" properties as a lure.
I too take melatonine and helps me a lot.
Some prescription medications work in the same pathways (Rozerem). But they are not true hypnotics, they are more like "sleep aids".
How well they work depends a lot on your own efforts with sleep hygiene and your expectations.
Melatonine, Rozerem, will not "knock you out" for the night.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Marky Mark, Detroit, MI — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:03:23 GMT

Try Rozerem - For the first two months I had the sleep of a seventh-grader [and the dream life too, but that's another story ;)]. After that, I merely had the sleep of angels.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Carl Larson, Russell, Ks. — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:04:07 GMT

I discovered that the power of suggestion works for me. My most boring and difficult course in college was Western Civ! Not because of the subject! The proffessor could put a person with ADHD to sleep. I kept the text by my bed for years. Just 2 or 3 pages would take me back, and i'd zonk. NOT A JOKE111

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Gloria Betrisey,Kirkland, Washington — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:10:51 GMT

I have had episodes of insomnia for 27 years. From every medication that I have tried trazodone is the one that has worked for me. Doing a lot of exercise for me has being the safest method.And of course trusting in Jesus while taking good care of myself is the best decision I have made.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Danny DOn — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:21:23 GMT

Zanax works wonders

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

g.fibro, phoenix, ax. — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:28:55 GMT

Try Bach Flower Remedy called RESCUE SLEEP...afew sprays under tongue calms a busy, restless mind and can be taken with any medication without concern. I've tried every sleep remedy due to fibromyalgia and this is only natural remedy I've found to work. If you awaken during night, you can use spray again, and I always go back to sleep. Chamomile tea also helps get you drowsy while Rescue Sleep is taking its effect. Most health stores and some groceries carry this. Little if any taste and in small spray bottle for aprox. $10 and can use as often as needed.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:29:35 GMT

After having a baby I started having a little insomnia, but I started taking Metatonin when needed and it Works Great!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Terrie v.B. — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:29:57 GMT

Plain old Benydryl (not with a decongestant!) works for me everytime. If you look at the label, the antihistimine ingredient in Benydryl is the exact same name and amount that is found in Tylenol PM. ZZZZZZZZ.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Ruth Fried, Owings Mills, MD — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:33:07 GMT

This is the silliest item in the world. Hey, if you don't want to swallow it because of plaque, why not sniff it up your nose or rub it on your skin. There is probably a placebo affect, but that's about all. Now if you dissolved a sleeping pill with the paste, that might help. "Doyahthing?"

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Danny in Mo — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:33:33 GMT

Zanax works great

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

TJ mahwah nj — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:35:09 GMT

go eat a big turkey dinner have a small class of wine maybe roll a dobe brush your teeth have a good night and call me in the morning.... nighty night

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Leebo, Bronx, New York — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:35:47 GMT

I have suffered sleepless nights my entire life, going back to the 2nd grade. It's a horrible, horrible thing. I've tried everything, and a lot of stuff works- for a little while, then I seem to develop a tolerance for whatever it is, and I have to switch. The 'natural' stuff [like melitonin] didn't affect me at all- I was still counting the cracks in the ceiling. Nowadays I get about 3 to 5 hrs. a night during the workweek if I'm lucky, then by Friday exhaustion sets in and I sleep through Saturday and a lot of Sunday. I've just learned to live with it. I just think I'm a nocturnal person- I get a second wind when the sun goes down and love the quiet of the wee hours- while I'm missing sleep I get stuff done! It's a wierd curse.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

TJ mahwah nj — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:38:06 GMT

go eat a big turkey dinner have a small class of wine maybe roll a dobe brush your teeth have a good night and call me in the morning.... nighty night

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

registered nurse, seattle wa — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:38:18 GMT

Valerian "nature's valium", when used regularly will cause you to have a distinct and unpleasant body odor..

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

SamJames Tucson,az — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:41:35 GMT

What are you doing sleeping with your boyfriend??!!!?? Forget the toothpaste-----get some moral backbone to your life!!!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

The Owl, Florida — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:46:11 GMT

After I divorced I been struggling with insomnia for years, when it started I didn't pay attention on the believe that sooner or later my body had to rest.... until I blacked out 2 weeks later and then I took it more seriously, currently I'm under a mild medication that I mix with melatonine. The important point in here is this; as soon as your body associate the sleep with a medication you are hook to it for a long time. Doing a repetitive task as praying is helping me a lot, go to bed only when you are sleepy and no TV on the bedroom. If You wake up in the middle and can't go back to sleep in 20 minutes then get out of bed and do something boring, is better to sleep 2 or 3 hours than tossing the whole night!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

CeCe Renton, WA — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:53:58 GMT

I find that Melatonin, 5 htp and Relora in some combination will work for a short while, say 4 days. Then I'll need to fool my body with another substance, maybe the toothpaste! Usually a sleep med. They scariest sleep med I've ever been prescribed is Xyrem, although I've heard others couldn't sleep without it.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

debbalee, Olympia, WA — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:58:05 GMT

The inducement here isn't to sleep but to separate you from your money! ...$19.95 is a lot for a tube of toothpaste. Years after developing midlife "sleep maintenance" insomnia, I've settled on a regimen of homeopathic and herbal remedies that help. A chewable melatonin pill (currently using Trader Joe's house brand) is part of this, but only if I wake up and have to turn the light on during the night. This is a journey where I've had to find my own way because there is no "one-size-fits-all" answer, and doctors treated me like a mental case.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

R/T in Nashville — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:00:23 GMT

Twenty Dollars A Tube????

You can do the same thing by taking a melatonin tablet and letting it dissolve under your toung. Melatonin is almost tasteless, Valerian Root tastes like dust. Many vitamin sellers offer combo's of both melatonin and valerian root in one tablet. It's also Very Cheap.

Try it before wasting your money on this toothpaste!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Paula, Vancouver, Washington — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:05:09 GMT

My son, who is 12, is a chronic insomniac. Our pediatrician used to have us give him benadryl every night before bed. But a couple of years ago he suggested we try melatonin. My son now takes melatonin (.5 mg) every night & has only had maybe 5 nights in 2 years that he hasn't been able to sleep. Does that sound like a crazy homeopathic solution to you? No, I think it's sounds like a safe, effective, non-drug way to help my child. I hate that doctors simply shrug-off things that don't come from a major drug maker.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Rhonni Rush, Knoxville, TN — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:06:01 GMT

What I find interesting is that everyone seems to think you should be on a daytime wake/nighttime sleep schedule. Whenever I have to be on a daytime schedule, I suffer HORRIBLE insomnia. Sleeping pills work but leave me feeling hung over in the daytime. When I am on a work night/sleep day schedule, I sleep wonderfully!!! I really don't believe we are all chemically equal. Either that or my pineal gland just gave up! According to my mother (and she would know) I was nocturnal even in the womb. Take that ciradian rhythm!
As for not wanting to swallow the plaque along with the toothpaste, why not just brush your teeth twice? You'll get even that much more of the 'natural herbs' in your system. Either that or continue w/ your regular toothpaste and take some valerian and/or melatonin. By the by, Melatonin did absolutely NOTHING for me.

Cheers all and best wishes for a good day's (or night's) sleep!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Scott, Portland, OR — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:13:17 GMT

The only problem I have with melatonin is the bizarre dreams it can induce. Having sleep apnea where I only get 4 hours sleep for every 8 hours I lay down (with a machine) I am willing to try (and have)almost anything.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Rufus R. Rufus, Sacramento — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:27:39 GMT

Try hypnosis cd's (Dr. Amen's are good) for sleeping assistance. Additionally, you may try to exercise more and meditation cd's that promote mindfulness can help. For me, I need a regime of dimming the lights, and turing off the tv and winding down about an hour before bed. If I'm tense then the hynosis cd's work well. Establishing set hours for sleep and eliminting naps also helps.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Monique, Winter Park, Fla. — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:31:58 GMT

i think i will try it and see if it can help me. I have had trouble sleeping (due to marital stress) and i have tried over the counter sleep aid, visited the health food stores and then had my Doctor perscribe me Lunesta (10 mg) and i am lucky to achive 3-4 hours of real sleep. this has been going on for almost 8 mths. now, so i will give anything a try at this point and time.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Yo Momma — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:34:25 GMT

Melatonin is the bomb. It's one of less than a handful of over-the-counter drugs/supplements that actually does something to me.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:34:47 GMT

I hear they're coming out with a "Pearly White" disposable douche.

You're supposed to keep that inside yourself too!
At least you wouldn't be swallowing plaque!

Next: We discuss "Pearly White" condoms!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Bryan Peterson Idaho Falls, Idaho — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:39:50 GMT

I have a perfect method for going to sleep..I smoke pot right before bedtime and I am gone for the night..Doctors want to cramm there medicine down you and tell you it is safe but ...You have to read the side effects..scary..Don't you think it is time we stopped thinking of pot as a bad thing and start using it for what is is good for and one of those things is great sleep...I dare you to try it

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Agnes Mercado,Marikina City< PHILIPPINES — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 17:07:43 GMT

Try this instead-talk to your body parts.But first,find your best &most comfortable sleep position.Then say,"sleep,toes sleep".working your way up to the heels,legs,knees,and so on.You will notice that as you silently speak to the next body part,the last one feels numb.I usually get my sleep when I reach my thighs.I dont know how it works,but I recommended it to my friends and it certainly works for them,too!Self-hypnosis,I guess?

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Kathi, Glen, NH — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 17:28:12 GMT

I have been an insomniac for over 25 years. Here are some of the non-medicine methods to try. It may sound severe, but consider the alternative! Just try to make it a change in lifestyle. When used in combination, on a consistent basis, you can greatly reduce sleeplessness:
Do not consume caffeine after 12noon (includes soda & chocolate)
Do not drink alcohol after 6pm (initially sedative, but disruptive later during sleep)
Do not drink ANY liquids after 8pm, even SleepyTime tea (avoids waking up to go pee during sleep)
Go to bed at the same time every night and set alarm to wake up at the same time every morning (no hitting the snooze - force yourself to get up)
BUT, do not go to bed before you're tired
Move any clocks away from sight of your bed (seeing the time in the middle of the night increases stress - "I've only got 4 more hours to get some sleep!")
If you use the TV in bed to help you get sleepy, use the timer function to automatically turn it off 30-60 minutes before your fall-asleep time (don't want to be awakened in the middle of the night by a still-on TV)
For me, a too-hot room wakes me up. I will put the air conditioner on to a temperature low enough that I need a blanket, even in the summer. That snuggly, comforting feeling of the blanket around me also helps.
When I do have to resort to medication, I will take an antihistamine OR a Tylenol PM. To avoid morning grogginess, take the Tylenol PM 2 hours before your desired fall-asleep time (for example, 9pm for an 11pm sleep time.) Don't use the medicine method more than 2-3 nights in a row, or you will become dependent on it for sleep.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Susan R., Ashland, OR — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 18:56:44 GMT

I totally agree with Dransom about Western medicine wanting to down play homeopathic remedies. Natural remedies in most cases are better for our body then
chemical remedies(drugs)pharmaceutical companies endorse. I believe taking a walk, a good book, a glass of wine, or sleepy time tea, warm bath and soothing music to rest the body & mind, should all be tried before taking a sleeping pill. There are side affects from almost all drugs, and I believe there are healthier ways to get a good night sleep. Try reading a book or magazine lying down after a glass of wine or cup of non-cafeinated tea. Taking a melatonin 5mg capsules sounds healthier to me then a prescribed sleeping pill.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Elizabeth, St. Louis, MO — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 19:26:47 GMT

If the issue is being overheated at nightmake some changes in the environment. Sleep issues are not just internal... the author even says that she's sleeping in a human oven. Get a fan, or get a thinner comforter or blanket.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Chuck Cheyne,Golden,CO — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 23:38:41 GMT

Medications or sleep remedies aren't necessary. The body has an internal rhythm clock that determines how long you sleep: your ability to fall asleep, stay asleep and the quality of sleep which, in turn, dictates your daily energy levels and well being. Sleep has several components, one being deep sleep - this is the stage responsible for restoring physical energy. So it's the quality of sleep, not how long you sleep, that matters. Daily factors such as stress, work, family, moving, etc. is what throws this natural sleep rhythm out of whack so you don't get the deep sleep you need which, in turn, causes havoc with energy levels, mood, etc. This is a vicious cycle which can be broken if the natural sleep cycle is restored.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Angela, New York, NY — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:10:43 GMT

I've been using the toothpaste for about three weeks now. The combination of the melatonin and herbs is giving me more relaxing sleep - not just knocking me out but making my body relax -- I'm not as stiff in the morning and I think I'm not grinding my teeth anymore because my TMJ is better. I like that it's a controllable dose -- if I'm really wound up, I brush with more. Only side effect so far is morning sleepiness from the valerian if I use too much -- nothing a cup of coffee can't counteract.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

RTP, Flagstaff, AZ — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:23:37 GMT

Melatonin works well for me, though I understand it doesn't for everyone. It has a delightful side-effect; it not only helps me fall asleep, a wake up more cheery and less achy (sleep-hungover) in the morning than I ever have before. I strongly recommend melatonin tablets, and hopefully, they'll work for you if you have insomnia!

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

T.L., Philadelphia. PA — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 13:31:05 GMT

This is actually kinda dangerous, and I'm surprised it's allowed. People think that melatonin is natural and safe because it is found in the body, and don't realize that it can have drug interactions, especially with SSRIs.

Also, how are you meant to get the stuff into your bloodstream? If you're meant to ingest small amounts through swallowing a tiny bit of toothpaste, that's ridiculous because you can't regulate the dose. If it's meant to cross into the bloodstream thought the oral mucosa, once again- how do you regulate the dose, and is it even possible for melatonin to make the jump?

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

T.L., Philadelphia. PA — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 13:32:41 GMT

And "dransom"?

It's Phen-Fen, not fin-fin.
Sheesh.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Sarah — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 15:22:45 GMT

If companies that make "natural" products claim their product is effective at treating a specific condition, it should be clinically tested in a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial to verify that claim. Far too often, products are taken by consumers who place their trust in these companies and there is little more that anecdotal evidence to support the claim. In addition, there have been many cases where the products listed on the bottle are not those contained in the actual product, or the strength is less than claimed.

Evidence about how this melatonin/valerian toothpaste compares in terms of effectiveness and long-term safety to other products that have been proven safe and effective to treat insomnia should be given.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Mimi Seattle, Wa — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:56:32 GMT

The good doctor said it all, and a prescribed sleep aid can get you back on the road to a good night's sleep! I should know, I've gone over two weeks without so much as five minutes of sleep, it's not healthy or pleasant.

If the herbs in this toothpaste make you sleepy, you can purchase them in a tea or capsule form at a health food store...but I found they do not work for anxiety caused sleeplessness, or the long term variety. Valerian can also cause headaches in some of us. If they work for you, all the better.

If these herbal treatments don't work for you, then please take the doctor up on his suggestion and get a script for a sleep aid. There are non-addictive prescription sleep aids now, if that is a concern to you...but wasting your money on a minute amount of common herbs which will seep into your gums is absurd, but good for the old toothpaste huckster's bank account.

A toothpaste to stop you from tossing and turning?

Ann, Charleston, SC — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:48:23 GMT

I also take my multivitamin before bed and get a great night's sleep. Iron deficiency, even slight amemia, can cause insomnia and RLS.