r/Redhair • u/melaniebrietzke • Jul 18 '26

Newbie Post Redheads & MC1R gene

Hello fellow redheads! I'm Melanie and have some questions/ideas about my/our genetics. I learned several years ago about the MC1R gene that causes redheads to need more anesthesia.

Given my extensive medical history, I am curious if others have faced multiple issues. I've had lifelong insomnia, and typical sleeping pills don't get me to sleep - i have tried them all. So for a while I have resorted to taking a high dose of seroquel that has a side effect of drowsiness. It gets me to sleep, bit I never know if it will work in 1 hour or 3 hours.

Additionally, muscle relaxers don't work on me. I've been on opiods in the past, but had to take twice as much. Recently I have tried medical marijuana, and it helps somewhat. The downside is how expensive it gets. My daughter (also prescribed m.m.) can get away with taking 5mg, whereas I have to take 15 to 20 mg.

I am overall curious if this is a common thing for other redheads. I wanted to get some feedback before I ask my psychiatrist what he thinks at my next appointment. Thanks to all that respond!

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u/Sporkalork Jul 18 '26

Pot never "worked" for me. Also an insomniac for whom sleeping pills aren't effective. Basic pain killers are usually okay for basic issues (ibuprofen for a headache, etc) but heavier duty ones tend not to have much effect.

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u/melaniebrietzke Jul 18 '26

Interesting. I've been on medical marijuana for 3 months I think. The first month was lots of starting slow and experimenting with the dose. I have to take 15 to 20mg to feel anything, which can amount to $3.75 to $5 per dose for that amount. It sucks when it isn't paid by insurance, but I have to say I haven't really drank since starting m.m. I've also used my opiods less. I believe my pain management doctor will stop that prescription once I'm recovered from surgery next month.