Hello WOOF-DOG. First, I'm glad you are aware of the potential problems with using certain drugs for long-term insomnia that aren't meant to be. Pretty wise for someone your age. I would definitely not recommend any type of opioid for insomnia. It will needlessly raise your tolerance, and I for one find it extremely hard to sleep while taking any type of opioid.
I am RX'ed temazepam for my sleep issues, and I can tell you it does exactly what I needed it to. It works nearly perfectly. However, I only take it a couple of times a week, and only if I really need it. While something like this would undoubtably help you, it isn't a long term/everyday solution.
You could try certain TCAs like amitriptyline or nortriptyline. Depending on the person they could help out while being a long term solution.
There are plenty of drugs that can make you sleepy, such as antihistamines, muscle relaxers, barbs, benzos, etc. I would recommend talking to your doctor about taking amitriptyline or nortriptyline, and you could also take something like Benadryl and melatonin before bed. Those things seem to be to be your best long term options, with the least side effects and the most tailored options towards long term use.
Taking Benadryl or even anything for that matter everyday isn't ideal, but the things I listed I feel are your best bets. Of course, make sure your room is cool and dark. Don't go from bright lights immediately to trying to sleep, and don't view electronics before you go to bed. Also, getting on a strict sleep schedule should help as well.
Overall, I'd recommend talking to your doctor about amitriptyline or nortriptyline, and/or taking benadryl and melatonin before bed. Have a cool, very dark room. Go to bed at a set time each night. Don't eat, or watch bright screens right before bed. Get everything you have to do done earlier in the day so you aren't thinking about it in bed.
I hope this helps, and good luck man.
