Many people with fibromyalgia have restless leg syndrome (RLS), an annoying condition which causes unexpected sudden body movements which wake us from sleep. I developed a severe case of restless leg syndrome about 7 years ago. I tried tons of natural remedies without relief, then my doctor started prescribing medications. The only drug that calmed the jerking and did not cause dizziness or headaches was Klonopin. Not generic Clonazepam, but brand name Klonopin–dye free. The brand name medication was more expensive, of course, but who wouldn’t pay $2 for a good night’s sleep?
When I tried to fill my prescription 4 weeks ago, the pharmacist said that the dye free brand name Klonopin was being discontinued. What? Seems not enough people needed the brand name Klonopin (the generic works well and is well tolerated by most people) so it is no longer profitable for the drug company. So I tried the generic Clonazepam. Not only was I awake most of the night, but I was dizzy and had nearly constant migraines.
I knew I had to think creatively, and summon practitioners that could help slowly wean me off of the medication while still getting a decent night’s sleep. So far so good. I am sleeping pretty well after an NAET treatment, a homeopathic remedy, and a lesson in self hypnosis. And yes, I am able to use less and less of the Klonopin every week. I still get frequent migraines, but I know those will fade after I am totally off the Klonopin.
Why are these natural methods working now when they didn’t help before? I think it is because now my sleep is in general much improved and my RLS not as severe, thanks to the steps I am taking to reverse the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Even though it has been rough going, I guess I am thankful to the drug company that makes Klonopin. I am now able to “dream” of a restful night’s sleep without prescription medication!