Tell your doctor this:
"I have tried melatonin, over the counter allergy pills, Nyquil, Valerian root and even herbal supplements. I exercise (be prepared to give examples of exercise), don't drink caffeine past noon and try to lay down at the same time every night. I still can't fall asleep and when I do, it takes hours of tossing and turning. I don't know what to do anymore."
Don't ask for medications by name, ever. That labels you as a drug seeker. It helps if you actually struggle with insomnia problems. Realistically, it isn't easy to just walk in and walk out with strong sedatives anymore. You'll need a history to prove it. However, don't be discouraged!
If you're really set on this method, it's going to take some effort. Build some trust, try whatever they give you, say it didn't work and ask for something else. Doctors are trained to exhaust all other options before writing a prescription for some Ambien or something because it's addictive. I've struggled with insomnia for years and it isn't easy getting strong sleeping pills like it used to be.
