There are some days, aren't there, when you go to bed and just can't sleep? Your head is spinning, you toss and turn, but you can't even get to sleep. Doxylamine is a medication that some people use to treat occasional insomnia. This medication is also available in Sri Lanka under the brand name Unisom. So, today we will talk in detail about this medication, its effectiveness, side effects, and things to be careful about while using it.
What is this medicine called Doxylamine?
Simply put, this belongs to a class of drugs called antihistamines . When you think of antihistamines, you immediately think of medicines for colds, itching, and various allergies, right? Yes, that's right. But some of these types of drugs also have the additional ability to affect our brain and make us sleepy. Doxylamine is one such type of antihistamine, mainly used as a sleep aid.
The important thing is that this is not a medication that is recommended for continuous use every day. It is only intended as a short-term solution for occasional insomnia.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medication
Before using Doxylamine, it is very important to talk to your doctor if you have any health problems, as this medication may interact with certain medical conditions.
| Things to tell your doctor | |
|---|---|
| Diseases |
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| Other points |
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Based on this information, your doctor can decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
How should I use this medicine?
The way to use this is very simple.
- Swallow this pill with a glass of water.
- It is usually advised to take this about 30 minutes before you go to bed .
- Take the dose exactly as directed on the medicine package or in the instructions provided by your doctor. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
- If this medicine is given to children under 12 years of age , it should only be on the advice of a doctor.
- People over the age of 65 may react more severely to this medication, so they are usually prescribed a lower dose.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you have any suspicion that you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Treat this as an emergency.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at once for any reason.
Other things that may interact with Doxylamine
This medicine may interact with some things, so tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies you are taking.
| Potentially problematic substances | Description |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Taking this medicine with alcohol can cause severe drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, avoid alcohol completely. |
| MAOI drugs | These are a type of medication used to treat conditions such as depression. (Ex: Carbex, Marplan, Nardil). Doxylamine may interact with these. |
| Other sleeping pills | Some cold, cough, and allergy medications, as well as pain relievers and muscle relaxants, can cause drowsiness. Taking these with doxylamine can increase drowsiness. |
Things to keep in mind when using the medicine
- Long-term use: If you need to use this medicine for more than two weeks, meaning that you continue to have insomnia, be sure to see a doctor, as the cause may be another medical condition.
- Dry mouth: A common side effect of this medication is dry mouth. This can be managed by chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Dry eyes and blurred vision: Some people may experience dry eyes and a slight blurring of vision. If you wear contact lenses, you may experience discomfort. You may find relief by using lubricating drops.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: This is the most important thing. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. You may feel dizzy or fall when you stand up suddenly, especially if you are an elderly person. So change positions slowly.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects, some of which you should be aware of immediately.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Eye problems | Sudden eye pain, blurred vision, seeing halos around lights, and loss of vision. |
| Urinary problems | Difficulty urinating. |
| Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. | |
| Common side effects |
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Take-Home Message
- Doxylamine is a short-term solution for occasional insomnia, not a medication that should be used continuously.
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have and any other medicines you are taking.
- Avoid drinking alcohol completely while taking doxylamine.
- Avoid driving and performing tasks that require attention due to possible drowsiness after taking the medication.
- If a severe side effect occurs or if the insomnia problem persists for more than 2 weeks, contact your doctor immediately.
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