Posted by Sandman on October 02, 2008 at 16:54:34:In Reply to: CPAP Therapy and Sleeping Tablets posted by EnglishEric on September 28, 2008 at 03:14:58:
Many insomnia medications will make OSA worse. The degree off negative effect usually depends on how it effects muscle tone. However, there are medication that suppress the drive to breath, decrease the arousal response from an event which is needed, etc.
So knowing the effect of a particular drug is important. In some cases, if a medication is needed to treat another problem, after the titration, and has a negative effect on breathing during sleep, the original cpap pressure may need to be checked to make sure it is adequate.
There were some sleep labs in Australia that allowed patients to have alcohol prior to a OSA study if the patient reports drinking nightly. Not sure if they are still doing this, however, to get the best look at pressure requirements for OSA, all medications and substances taken daily should be on board during titration. Just my opinion.
Best wishes,
SandmanDisclaimer, I am not an MD and my opinions should not be taken as medical advice. If you feel that you need assistance with medications and/or diagnosis, you should seek medical advice from a qualified physician.