#Healthwire: Stimulant medications

Dr. Howell says numerous medications can cause difficulty falling asleep. The most common ones include: steroids such as prednisone; antidepressants such as bupropion and venlafaxine; stimulants such as methylphenidate and modafinil, adrenal, thyroid replacement medications, beta agonists and theophylline used for asthma. "Some over-the-counter medications, such as some pain medications, allergy, and cold medications, and weight-loss products, contain caffeine and other stimulants that can disrupt sleep," reports the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Howell suggests you talk to your doctor about the medication, and consider if the benefits you are receiving from the medication outweigh the consequences of poor sleep.