Yah, it does sound familiar. In my time volunteering for The Arthritis Society, I've heard sleep as the reason for a few drinks at night (despite conflicting meds) many times. Thing is that while it might make a body go to sleep, it actually disrupts later stages of sleep and is often a contributor to sleep apnea (due to relaxed throat muscles in part).
This article from sleepdex.org is enlightening about the truth of sleep and alcohol:
Alcohol and Sleep Good decision to stop on your part.
Hugs,
