Doxylamine Succinate Oral tablet [Insomnia] Health Article

Generic name(s):

Doxylamine Succinate Oral tablet [Insomnia]

Brand name(s):

Aldex AN, Doxylamine Succinate, Nytol Maximum Strength, Unisom

What is this medicine?

DOXYLAMINE (dox IL a meen) is an antihistamine. It is used to treat sleeping problems.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• glaucoma
• heart disease
• liver disease
• lung or breathing disease, like asthma or emphysema
• pain or trouble passing urine
• prostate trouble
• ulcers or other stomach problems
• an unusual or allergic reaction to doxylamine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label. Take this medicine 30 minutes before you go to bed. Do not take it more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• alcohol
• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
• some medicines for allergies, cold, or cough
• medicines that make you sleepy

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

See your doctor or healthcare professional if you need to use this sleep aid for more than 2 weeks.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

This medicine may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses you may feel some discomfort. Lubricating drops may help. See your eye doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.