Trouble Sleeping

Question: My daughter has trouble sleeping through the night, and we have been trying various methods and medications to help with this. I have been reading that it is not recommended to take melatonin long-term. Is this true? Also, we are trying Lexapro for her depression and behaviors. How long does it normally take for CdLS clients to realize the benefits of medications such as Lexapro? How long should we wait before increasing the dosage, and is that wise? She has been gaining weight, and I am concerned because her feet are so small that she may have circulation issues. I know every CdLS client is different, and it is hard to find a medication that works for all, but what are your thoughts?

Answer: From a psychiatry perspective, Lexapro is appropriate, would watch for “activation” (too much energy, more irritable, not sleeping), but otherwise it can be helpful for anxiety/depression. Melatonin can be used long-term, depending on the meaning of long-term. 1 month +/- would not be a concern. But 2-3 months is not unheard of, if needed.

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