Doxylamine is used to treat occasional insomnia and to reduce difficulty falling asleep.

 

What is Doxylamine?

Doxylamine is an antihistamine. It works by depressing the central nervous system to produce drowsiness.

 

How should Doxylamine be taken?

Doxylamine is administered orally in the form of tablets. It should be taken at least 30 minutes before going to bed.

 

Side effects associated with Doxylamine

Doxylamine can increase the risk of heat stroke in the event of exposure to high temperatures.

 

Among the other possible side effects of doxylamine include the following:

 

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth, throat and nose
  • Thickening of the mucus in the nose and throat

 

 It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:

 

  • Rash
  • Urticaria
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
  • Convulsions
  • Reduced alertness
  • Excitability
  • Hallucinations
  • Feeling of shots to the chest
  • Tremors
  • Wheezing

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Doxylamine

Doxylamine is contraindicated during lactation, in case of intake of sodium oxybate and in case of treatment with furazolidone or an MAO inhibitor within the previous 2 weeks.

 

The drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be aggravated by alcohol or other medicines. High temperatures, strenuous physical exercise and fever can also increase dizziness caused by this medication. For such reasons, it is advisable to get up slowly from a lying or seated position (especially in the morning).  

 

Before starting treatment with doxylamine, it is important to tell your doctor if:

 

  • You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, or to any other drugs, food or various substances
  • You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: sodium oxybate and furazolidone MAO inhibitors
  • You are suffering (or have suffered) from asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung disease, shortness of breath, sleep apnea, gastrointestinal blockages or obstructions of the urinary tract, difficulty urinating, diabetes, ulcers, prostatic hypertrophy, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, porphyria or thyroid disease
  • You are pregnant or breast-feeding

 

In the event that insomnia persists after 2 weeks of treatment, it is recommended to consult with a doctor.