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Clonidine er or Atomoxetine?
I used to masturbate daily since around 2014 mainly to help myself fall asleep. It was never due to strong sexual urge or feeling horny, it just became part of my sleep routine before bed.
Since 2020, after learning about sleep hygiene and using supplements like melatonin and magnesium glycinate, my sleep problem has improved a lot. I no longer feel I need masturbation for sleep, and I actually want to stop it completely.
However, I still end up masturbating automatically before sleep around 6–8 times per month. I don’t even feel much sexual urge, but it feels impulsive or habitual, difficult to control, and sometimes I feel unable to think clearly in that moment.
I have ADHD (mainly attention deficit + impulsivity type). Since methylphenidate cannot be taken before sleep, I wanted to ask:
For this type of bedtime habit, which medicine is usually considered more helpful — Atomoxetine or Clonidine ER?
Would appreciate medical guidance.
Answers (5)
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Hi
A lot of details in a single question
But good that u have studied about urself in detail
Clonidine is actually taken when when a person is feeling restless and agitated. When his daily activities are affected by this restlessness clonidine is a preferred drug. So more details about the restlessness is required.
Atomoxetine can be tried when attention span is affected, and a person feels restless at times, so the ability to attend an activity for a long duration and ability to concentrate is studied.
Rather than choosing by yourself, kindly consult Psychiatrist and express your concerns.
But of course, your troubles will be healed with medication
Next Steps
Consult via appointment:
Nine one one three nine five four four one eight
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Dr. Bojja Sarada Sireesha
Neuropsychiatrist
8 yrs exp
Puducherry
The symptoms appear more related to a learned bedtime habit/impulse behavior associated with ADHD impulsivity rather than increased sexual urge. Since the frequency is limited and not severely impairing functioning, behavioural strategies and sleep routine modification may help significantly.
Next Steps
Both Atomoxetine and Clonidine ER can help ADHD symptoms, but the choice depends on associated symptoms like impulsivity, anxiety, sleep disturbance and daytime attention issues. A psychiatrist can assess and decide the most suitable option and dosage.
Health Tips
Maintain strict sleep hygiene
Avoid staying alone with triggers before bedtime
Keep a fixed bedtime routine without screens
Use relaxation exercises before sleep
Try habit replacement techniques like reading/music/meditation
Continue ADHD treatment and regular follow-up with psychiatrist
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Dr. Indraja Sharma
Psychiatrist
7 yrs exp
Kota
Usually, for ADHD-related impulsivity/habit loops at bedtime:
* Atomoxetine may help more with the underlying impulsivity and executive control over time.
* Clonidine is often more helpful if the issue is restlessness, hyperarousal, difficulty “switching off,” or sleep initiation.
From what’s described, the behavior sounds more like a conditioned habit + impulsivity rather than high sexual drive. In such cases, many psychiatrists would consider atomoxetine if daytime ADHD symptoms/impulsivity are significant, while clonidine may help if nighttime calming/sleep regulation is the main target.
Medication choice depends on:
* daytime ADHD severity
* sleep quality
* anxiety/restlessness
* blood pressure/sedation tolerance
* current stimulant dose/timing
A psychiatrist should individualize it rather than choosing based only on this symptom.
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Dr. Murtaza Ali
Psychiatrist
9 yrs exp
Srinagar
Hello.
Before taking any medicine for these issues seek proper consultation so that all issues are addressed properly.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.