system
Will taking zolpidem and syncope with cognitive therapy help with sleeplessness, fatigue, muscle pain and lack of concentration?
human
15 years ago my physician prescribed 20 mg per evening for zolpidem. He thought at that time it was safe. More data and unintended effects have been reported, some fairly dangerous. I am 60 yo, and have been taking 20 mg of zolpidem off and on for 15 years. I have tried the cognigitive therapy, etc. Have a new sleep study in December. I know as i get older, I should probably cut back on zolpidem. And better yet, get off of it. Any recommendations or options? Not that it matters that much, but I have a high pressure executive job, and if I do not sleep, I do not function well at all. Different possible diagnoses since 1990 include chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, benign PVC s, boarderline sleep study in 1991, boarderline changes in lung volume/capacities, periscapular muscle wasting, syncope, and probably a few other things! I fully realize one disease process is likely not responsible for all of this. Coronary arteries and carotid arteries are completely clear. Sleep issues, fatigue, muscle pain, and lack of concentratation seem to be my mayor issues. MRI showed 2 areas of decreased circulation in the brain, but those could have been from previous injuries. At this rate, I feel like I could live to 100 but will feel terrible every day. Ruled out depression early in the process. I am accomplished in my job, and I think that is how I cope. Work hard and forget about the pain. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks very much.
gpt
Hello I have will advice my patient as following1. Take drug fixesd dose daily and not on and off basis . Regular use of drugs in psychiatry give best results.  On and off  intake of a psychiatric drug may not have desired effect and you will find it difficult to stop it .If you take it regularly for some time it may be gradually reduced to minimum or may be stopped in future SO Take iy on regular basis at present and take guidance from your psychistrist for future2 You are doing much better than others although you have health issues .Do not let your moral go down Always be positive about future do some light exercises like mornig walk  after clearance from heart doctor and yoga and relaxation ; take food as advised by doctor and i assure you will past 100 years May god give you long and healthy life Take careDr LalPsychiatrist