Doxylamine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Doxylamine (dox-IL-a-meen)

Treats insomnia (trouble sleeping). Also treats symptoms of hay fever or other allergies, such as runny nose, sneezing, itching of the nose or throat, or itchy, watery eyes.

Brand Name(s):

Unisom, The Medicine Shoppe Medi-Sleep, Aldex AN

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You or your child should not use this medicine if you have or your child has had an allergic reaction to doxylamine. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Chewable Tablet, Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • Take the tablet 30 minutes before going to bed.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you or your child are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have glaucoma, breathing problems (such as emphysema or bronchitis), or problems with urination due to an enlarged prostate.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use the tablet only at bedtime. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • You should not give the tablet to a child under 12 years of age.
  • Children receiving the suspension form of this medicine tend to get more excited. Talk to your doctor if this concerns you.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
  • If sleeplessness lasts longer than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
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