Suppléments or medication for insomnia

For treating insomnia, supplements and medications are widely discussed in the Huberman Lab. Here are some recommendations and considerations:

Supplements

1. Magnesium: Particularly magnesium threonate is recommended for sleep improvement due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and enhance sleep depth 1.
2. Apigenin: Derived from chamomile, it acts as a mild sedative by increasing GABA in the brain 1.
3. Theanine: Known for its calming effects, it helps turn off thinking and promotes relaxation before sleep. However, it might increase dream vividness, so caution is advised for those prone to sleep disturbances like sleepwalking 1.
4. GABA: Can aid sleep but is recommended for occasional use (not nightly) due to potential dependency 2.

Medications

1. Doxepin: Shown to be effective in helping maintain sleep, particularly beneficial for older adults 3.
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     Sleep Supplements Explored

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2. Trazodone: Often used to aid sleep, though there is some debate about its efficacy and use 3.
3. Dual Orexin Receptor Antagonists (DORAs): A newer class of sleep aids that show promise, though specific recommendations would depend on individual circumstances 3.

General Advice

While medications can be a short-term solution, they are typically not recommended for long-term use due to risks like dependency and rebound insomnia. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) is a non-drug approach that has been shown to be as effective or more effective than sleeping pills, offering long-lasting benefits 4. It's essential to prioritize sleep hygiene and consider underlying causes of insomnia before resorting to medication. Always consult a healthcare provider to tailor interventions to your specific needs and ensure safety.