According to the National Sleep Foundation, insomnia is the most common type of sleep disturbance among Americans, and medication is the most commonly used treatment. Alternative treatments, such as dietary supplements, may also relieve insomnia. Some dietary supplements contain inositol, a naturally occurring molecule, because it is believed to relieve insomnia and other mental health conditions, such as depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Before taking any supplement for insomnia, consult your doctor.
Inositol Defined
Inositol is a nutrient produced by your body to help cells to grow and function. It is also contained in certain foods. The best source of inositol is liver. Other sources include beans, peas, nuts, whole wheat, raisins, cantaloupe and brown rice. Cell membranes are also made in part with the help of inositol. Inositol also aids cell responses to environmental stimuli. Inositol may also balance some chemicals in the body.
Insomnia Defined
Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep or not sleeping through the night. Feeling unrefreshed after a night's sleep is also common. Insomnia is generally caused by stress, worry or an underlying medical condition. If inositol is taken to treat insomnia, it should only be temporary. Once the ultimate cause has subsided, bouts of insomnia should subside as well.
Function
Levels of inositol in your body are believed to coincide with the presence of certain health problems. Although there is some scientific data to support the effectiveness of inositol to treat OCD and panic disorder, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of inositol for the treatment of insomnia. Additional studies also are needed to determine if inositol can prevent cancer.
Side Effects
Inositol is generally tolerated well and has few side effects. Side effects include nausea, fatigue, dizziness and headaches. When side effects occur, they are usually mild. In rare instances, allergic reactions may occur, which can result in difficulty breathing, itchiness, hives or a rash.
Drug Interactions
Inositol has the potential to interfere with several psychotropic medications such as lithium and divalproex, which are used to treat bipolar disorder. Divalproex is also prescribed to treat migraines. Both lithium and divalproex lower the level of inositol in your brain. When these medications interact with inositol, they can become less effective. Alcohol and caffeine inhibit inositol.
