Pronounced agitation or insomnia
- Benzodiazepines: Diazepam, Temazepam tablets* (*Risk/benefit analysis required due to propensity for misuse and exacerbation of depressive symptoms)
- Barbiturates* (*in combination with benzodiazepines have been used successfully to lower benzodiazepine requirements and improve withdrawal symptoms)
- Reduce coffee, tea, cola and energy drinks during the day and have none after 2 pm
- Eat 3 meals a day and avoid heavy, spicy meals late at night
- Avoid napping during the day and keep to regular bed and wake times
- Exercise regularly (in the day, not after 6 pm)
- Use relaxation techniques
- Avoid doing things (i.e. tough phone calls) that might upset you before going to sleep
- Have a bath in the evening
Nausea and Vomiting
- Eat small meals and snacks often
- Drink plenty of water
- If vomiting, stop eating solid food and try small sips of liquid, or sucking an ice cube. Try a small amount of food once you have kept fluids down for a few hours
- Rehydration/sports/isotonic drinks such as ‘Powerade'
- Avoid citrus and caffeine on an empty stomach
Anxiety
- Use relaxation tapes
- Reduce caffeine intake
- Have a bath
- Do some gentle exercise
Sweating
- Have regular showers or baths
- Paracetamol - take as directed on the packet
Tremors and Convulsions
- Beta-blockers
- Anticonvulsants