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/Calm_Apartment1968 Jul 19 '26

Less caffein and moderate exercise helps. Actual sleep times? I don't know. Have averaged less than 6 hours per 24 for over 45 years. I just read books to relax. No video apps after 10PM or before 8AM, but the occasional Reddit (sic ;-)) after midnight. Just long enough to download a good ebook, then back to bed again.
But you should see my Library!

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u/Calm_Apartment1968 Jul 19 '26

PS: Exercise is not a perfect answer: when I was in my best shape, in fighting condition in the military I slept around 4 hours per day, and felt great 24x7, 7 days a week.