Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 25mg
Insomnia
25 mg PO qHS PRN 30 min before bedtime
Insomnia
<12 years: Not recommended
>12 years: 25 mg PO qHS PRN 30 min before bedtime
Avoid use in elderly because of high incidence of anticholinergic effects
Clearance reduced with advanced age, greater risk of confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and other anticholinergic effects and toxicity
May exacerbate existing lower urinary conditions or benign prostatic hyperplasia
Tolerance develops when used as hypnotic
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (18)
- benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen
benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
- calcium/magnesium/potassium/sodium oxybates
doxylamine, calcium/magnesium/potassium/sodium oxybates. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
- fentanyl
fentanyl, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration with other CNS depressants, such as skeletal muscle relaxants, may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, and/or death. Consider dose reduction of either or both agents to avoid serious adverse effects. Monitor for hypotension, respiratory depression, and profound sedation.
- fentanyl intranasal
fentanyl intranasal, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration with other CNS depressants, such as skeletal muscle relaxants, may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, and/or death. Consider dose reduction of either or both agents to avoid serious adverse effects. Monitor for hypotension, respiratory depression, and profound sedation.
- fentanyl transdermal
fentanyl transdermal, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration with other CNS depressants, such as skeletal muscle relaxants, may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, and/or death. Consider dose reduction of either or both agents to avoid serious adverse effects. Monitor for hypotension, respiratory depression, and profound sedation.
- fentanyl transmucosal
fentanyl transmucosal, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration with other CNS depressants, such as skeletal muscle relaxants, may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, and/or death. Consider dose reduction of either or both agents to avoid serious adverse effects. Monitor for hypotension, respiratory depression, and profound sedation.
- hydrocodone
hydrocodone, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
- isocarboxazid
isocarboxazid increases effects of doxylamine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Isocarboxazid should not be administered in combination with antihistamines because of potential additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. .
- lemborexant
lemborexant, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Use of lemborexant with other drugs to treat insomnia is not recommended.
- methylene blue
methylene blue and doxylamine both increase serotonin levels. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. If drug combination must be administered, monitor for evidence of serotonergic or opioid-related toxicities
- metoclopramide intranasal
doxylamine, metoclopramide intranasal. Either increases effects of the other by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Avoid use of metoclopramide intranasal or interacting drug, depending on importance of drug to patient.
- olopatadine intranasal
doxylamine and olopatadine intranasal both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.
- selinexor
selinexor, doxylamine. unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Patients treated with selinexor may experience neurological toxicities. Avoid taking selinexor with other medications that may cause dizziness or confusion.
- sodium oxybate
doxylamine, sodium oxybate. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
- sufentanil SL
sufentanil SL, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration may result in hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
- tranylcypromine
tranylcypromine increases effects of doxylamine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Tranylcypromine should not be administered in combination with antihistamines because of potential additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. .
- valerian
valerian and doxylamine both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- zuranolone
doxylamine, zuranolone. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of zuranolone with other CNS depressants may increase impairment of psychomotor performance or CNS depressant effects. If unavoidable, consider dose reduction. .
Monitor Closely (195)
- abobotulinumtoxinA
doxylamine increases effects of abobotulinumtoxinA by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs with anticholinergic effects may potentiate botulinum toxin effects, which may result in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heighten systemic anticholinergic effects.
- acrivastine
acrivastine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- alfentanil
doxylamine and alfentanil both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- alprazolam
alprazolam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amifampridine
doxylamine increases toxicity of amifampridine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Amifampridine can cause seizures. Coadministration with drugs that lower seizure threshold may increase this risk.
- amisulpride
amisulpride and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amitriptyline
doxylamine and amitriptyline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amobarbital
amobarbital and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amoxapine
doxylamine and amoxapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amphetamine
doxylamine increases and amphetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- apomorphine
doxylamine and apomorphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- aripiprazole
doxylamine and aripiprazole both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- asenapine
asenapine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- asenapine transdermal
asenapine transdermal and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- avapritinib
avapritinib and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- azelastine
azelastine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- baclofen
doxylamine and baclofen both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- belladonna and opium
doxylamine and belladonna and opium both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- benperidol
doxylamine and benperidol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen
benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- benzphetamine
doxylamine increases and benzphetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brexanolone
brexanolone, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brexpiprazole
brexpiprazole and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brimonidine
brimonidine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brivaracetam
brivaracetam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brompheniramine
brompheniramine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine
doxylamine and buprenorphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine buccal
doxylamine and buprenorphine buccal both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine subdermal implant
buprenorphine subdermal implant and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine transdermal
buprenorphine transdermal and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine, long-acting injection
doxylamine increases toxicity of buprenorphine, long-acting injection by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of buprenorphine and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants increases risk of adverse reactions including overdose, respiratory depression, and death. Cessation of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants is preferred in most cases. In some cases, monitoring at a higher level of care for tapering CNS depressants may be appropriate. In others, gradually tapering a patient off of a prescribed benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant or decreasing to the lowest effective dose may be appropriate.
buprenorphine, long-acting injection and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor. - butabarbital
butabarbital and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- butalbital
butalbital and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- butorphanol
doxylamine and butorphanol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- carbinoxamine
carbinoxamine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cariprazine
cariprazine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- carisoprodol
doxylamine and carisoprodol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cenobamate
cenobamate, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- chloral hydrate
chloral hydrate and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- chlordiazepoxide
chlordiazepoxide and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- chlorpheniramine
chlorpheniramine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- chlorpromazine
doxylamine and chlorpromazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- chlorzoxazone
doxylamine and chlorzoxazone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cinnarizine
cinnarizine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clemastine
clemastine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clobazam
doxylamine, clobazam. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Concomitant administration can increase the potential for CNS effects (e.g., increased sedation or respiratory depression).
- clomipramine
doxylamine and clomipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clonazepam
clonazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clonidine
clonidine, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration enhances CNS depressant effects.
- clorazepate
clorazepate and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clozapine
doxylamine and clozapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- codeine
doxylamine and codeine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cyclizine
cyclizine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cyclobenzaprine
doxylamine and cyclobenzaprine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cyproheptadine
cyproheptadine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dantrolene
doxylamine and dantrolene both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- daridorexant
doxylamine and daridorexant both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.
- daxibotulinumtoxinA
doxylamine increases effects of daxibotulinumtoxinA by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs with anticholinergic effects may potentiate botulinum toxin effects, which may result in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heighten systemic anticholinergic effects.
- desipramine
doxylamine and desipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- deutetrabenazine
doxylamine and deutetrabenazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dexchlorpheniramine
dexchlorpheniramine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dexfenfluramine
doxylamine increases and dexfenfluramine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dexmedetomidine
dexmedetomidine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dextromoramide
doxylamine and dextromoramide both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- diamorphine
doxylamine and diamorphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- diazepam
diazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- diazepam intranasal
diazepam intranasal, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration may potentiate the CNS-depressant effects of each drug.
- difelikefalin
difelikefalin and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- difenoxin hcl
doxylamine and difenoxin hcl both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dimenhydrinate
dimenhydrinate and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- diphenhydramine
diphenhydramine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- diphenoxylate hcl
doxylamine and diphenoxylate hcl both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dipipanone
doxylamine and dipipanone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dopexamine
doxylamine increases and dopexamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dosulepin
doxylamine and dosulepin both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- doxepin
doxylamine and doxepin both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- droperidol
doxylamine and droperidol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- esketamine intranasal
esketamine intranasal, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- estazolam
estazolam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ethanol
doxylamine and ethanol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- etomidate
etomidate and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fenfluramine
doxylamine increases and fenfluramine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl
fentanyl and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl intranasal
fentanyl intranasal and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system
fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl transdermal
fentanyl transdermal and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl transmucosal
fentanyl transmucosal and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- flibanserin
doxylamine and flibanserin both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Risk for sedation increased if flibanserin is coadministration with other CNS depressants.
- fluphenazine
doxylamine and fluphenazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- flurazepam
flurazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- gabapentin
gabapentin, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.
- gabapentin enacarbil
gabapentin enacarbil, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.
- ganaxolone
doxylamine and ganaxolone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- gotu kola
gotu kola increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance CNS depression.
- haloperidol
doxylamine and haloperidol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- hawthorn
hawthorn increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance CNS depression.
- hops
hops increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance CNS depression.
- hyaluronidase
doxylamine decreases effects of hyaluronidase by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Antihistamines, when given in large systemic doses, may render tissues partially resistant to the action of hyaluronidase. Patients may require larger amounts of hyaluronidase for equivalent dispersing effect. .
- hydromorphone
doxylamine and hydromorphone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- hydroxyzine
hydroxyzine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- iloperidone
doxylamine and iloperidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- imipramine
doxylamine and imipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- incobotulinumtoxinA
doxylamine increases effects of incobotulinumtoxinA by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs with anticholinergic effects may potentiate botulinum toxin effects, which may result in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heighten systemic anticholinergic effects.
- kava
kava increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance CNS depression.
- ketamine
ketamine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ketotifen, ophthalmic
doxylamine and ketotifen, ophthalmic both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lasmiditan
lasmiditan, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of lasmiditan and other CNS depressant drugs, including alcohol have not been evaluated in clinical studies. Lasmiditan may cause sedation, as well as other cognitive and/or neuropsychiatric adverse reactions.
- letibotulinumtoxinA
doxylamine increases effects of letibotulinumtoxinA by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs with anticholinergic effects may potentiate botulinum toxin effects, which may result in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heighten systemic anticholinergic effects.
- levetiracetam
levetiracetam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- levorphanol
doxylamine and levorphanol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lofepramine
doxylamine and lofepramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lofexidine
doxylamine and lofexidine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- loprazolam
loprazolam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lorazepam
lorazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lormetazepam
lormetazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- loxapine
doxylamine and loxapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- loxapine inhaled
doxylamine and loxapine inhaled both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lurasidone
lurasidone, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Potential for increased CNS depressant effects when used concurrently; monitor for increased adverse effects and toxicity.
- maprotiline
doxylamine and maprotiline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- marijuana
doxylamine and marijuana both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- melatonin
doxylamine and melatonin both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- meperidine
doxylamine and meperidine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- meprobamate
doxylamine and meprobamate both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- metaxalone
doxylamine and metaxalone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- methadone
doxylamine and methadone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- methocarbamol
doxylamine and methocarbamol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- methohexital
methohexital and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- methylenedioxymethamphetamine
doxylamine increases and methylenedioxymethamphetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- midazolam
midazolam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- midazolam intranasal
midazolam intranasal, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Concomitant use of barbiturates, alcohol, or other CNS depressants may increase risk of hypoventilation, airway obstruction, desaturation, or apnea and may contribute to profound and/or prolonged drug effect.
- mirtazapine
doxylamine and mirtazapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- morphine
doxylamine and morphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- motherwort
doxylamine and motherwort both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- moxonidine
doxylamine and moxonidine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nabilone
doxylamine and nabilone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nalbuphine
doxylamine and nalbuphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nortriptyline
doxylamine and nortriptyline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- olanzapine
doxylamine and olanzapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- olanzapine/samidorphan
doxylamine, olanzapine/samidorphan. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of diazepam, alcohol, or other CNS acting drugs may potentiate orthostatic hypotension observed with olanzapine. Additive sedation may also occur.
- oliceridine
oliceridine, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
- onabotulinumtoxinA
doxylamine increases effects of onabotulinumtoxinA by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs with anticholinergic effects may potentiate botulinum toxin effects, which may result in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heighten systemic anticholinergic effects.
- opium tincture
doxylamine and opium tincture both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- orphenadrine
doxylamine and orphenadrine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- oxazepam
oxazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- oxycodone
doxylamine and oxycodone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- oxymorphone
doxylamine and oxymorphone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- paliperidone
doxylamine and paliperidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- papaveretum
doxylamine and papaveretum both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- papaverine
doxylamine and papaverine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- passion flower
passion flower increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance CNS depression.
- pentazocine
doxylamine and pentazocine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- pentobarbital
pentobarbital and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- perphenazine
doxylamine and perphenazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- phenelzine
phenelzine increases effects of doxylamine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Coadministration of phenelzine and antihistamines may result in additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. .
- phenobarbital
phenobarbital and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- phenylephrine PO
doxylamine increases and phenylephrine PO decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor. .
- pholcodine
doxylamine and pholcodine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- pimozide
doxylamine and pimozide both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- prabotulinumtoxinA
doxylamine increases effects of prabotulinumtoxinA by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs with anticholinergic effects may potentiate botulinum toxin effects, which may result in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heighten systemic anticholinergic effects.
- pregabalin
pregabalin, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.
- primidone
primidone and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- prochlorperazine
doxylamine and prochlorperazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- promethazine
promethazine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- propofol
propofol and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- propylhexedrine
doxylamine increases and propylhexedrine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- protriptyline
doxylamine and protriptyline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- quazepam
quazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- quetiapine
doxylamine and quetiapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ramelteon
doxylamine and ramelteon both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- remimazolam
remimazolam, doxylamine. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death. Continuously monitor vital signs during sedation and recovery period if coadministered. Carefully titrate remimazolam dose if administered with opioid analgesics and/or sedative/hypnotics.
- rimabotulinumtoxinB
doxylamine increases effects of rimabotulinumtoxinB by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs with anticholinergic effects may potentiate botulinum toxin effects, which may result in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heighten systemic anticholinergic effects.
- risperidone
doxylamine and risperidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- scullcap
doxylamine and scullcap both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- secobarbital
secobarbital and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- sevoflurane
sevoflurane and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- shepherd's purse
doxylamine and shepherd's purse both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- stiripentol
stiripentol, doxylamine. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use stiripentol with other CNS depressants, including alcohol, may increase the risk of sedation and somnolence.
- sufentanil
doxylamine and sufentanil both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tapentadol
doxylamine and tapentadol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- temazepam
temazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- thioridazine
doxylamine and thioridazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- thiothixene
doxylamine and thiothixene both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- topiramate
doxylamine and topiramate both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- tramadol
doxylamine and tramadol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- trazodone
doxylamine and trazodone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- triazolam
triazolam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- triclofos
doxylamine and triclofos both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- trifluoperazine
doxylamine and trifluoperazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- trimipramine
doxylamine and trimipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- triprolidine
triprolidine and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- valerian
valerian increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance CNS depression.
- xylometazoline
doxylamine increases and xylometazoline decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ziconotide
doxylamine and ziconotide both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ziprasidone
doxylamine and ziprasidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- zotepine
doxylamine and zotepine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (6)
- ashwagandha
ashwagandha increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. May enhance CNS depression.
- brimonidine
brimonidine increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased CNS depression.
- eucalyptus
doxylamine and eucalyptus both increase sedation. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- nettle
nettle increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. (High dose nettle; theoretical interaction) May enhance CNS depression.
- sage
doxylamine and sage both increase sedation. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- Siberian ginseng
Siberian ginseng increases effects of doxylamine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. May enhance CNS depression.
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Tachycardia
Dysuria
Urinary retention
Palpitations
Constipation
Diarrhea
Epigastric pain
Xerostomia
Anorexia
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Blurred vision
Vertigo
Paradoxical CNS stimulation
Disorientation
Diplopia
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Children <12 years
Coadministration with any other product containing doxylamine
Cautions
May cause CNS depression, which may impair physical and mental activities
Not to exceed 2 weeks of use
Caution in asthma, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, or thyroid dysfunction
Use with caution in patients with increased intraocular pressure or angle closure glaucoma
Not for use to treat insomnia in children <12 years; may cause paradoxical excitation in young children
CNS effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol
Not for use unless patient has enough time for a full night’s sleep
Ask healthcare professional before use if taking sedative or any other sleep-aid, tranquilizers, any other antihistamines, any other drugs
When using this product avoid alcoholic beverages, do not drive a motor vehicle or operate machinery, take only at bedtime
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category: B
Lactation: excretion in milk unknown
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Competes for H1-receptor sites on target cells; has anticholinergic effects, which depresses labyrinthine function, blocks chemoreceptor trigger zone, and diminishes vestibular stimulation
Absorption
Peak Plasma Time: 2-3 hr
Peak Plasma Concentration: 100 ng/mL
Elimination
Half-Life: 10-12 hr
Excretion: Urine
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nighttime Sleep-Aid (doxylamine) oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| Wal-Som (doxylamine) oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| Unisom (doxylamine) oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| Sleep Aid (doxylamine) oral - | 25 mg tablet | | |
| Sleep Aid (doxylamine) oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| Sleep Aid (doxylamine) oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| Sleep Aid (doxylamine) oral - | 25 mg tablet | |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
doxylamine succinate oral
DOXYLAMINE - ORAL
(dox-IL-a-meen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Unisom Sleep Aid
USES: Doxylamine is an antihistamine, used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold. This medication works by blocking certain natural substances (histamine, acetylcholine) that your body makes. This effect helps to relieve allergy/cold symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Doxylamine is also used to help you relax and fall asleep.Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Also, do not give the 25 milligram tablets to children younger than 12 years, unless directed by the doctor. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).
HOW TO USE: Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth with or without food. This medication may be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs.If you are using the chewable form of this medication, chew thoroughly and then swallow.If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.To help you sleep, take this medication about 30 minutes before bedtime. If you continue to have difficulty sleeping for longer than 2 weeks, contact your doctor.If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, constipation, stomach upset, blurred vision, decreased coordination, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as hallucinations, irritability, nervousness, confusion), ringing in the ears, trouble urinating, easy bruising/bleeding, fast/irregular heartbeat.Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: seizure.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking doxylamine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), a certain eye problem (glaucoma), heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, stomach problems (such as ulcers, blockage), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), urination problems (such as trouble urinating due to enlarged prostate, urinary retention).This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).Liquid products may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, dizziness, low blood pressure, confusion, constipation, or trouble urinating. Drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion can increase the risk of falling.Children may be more sensitive to the effects of antihistamines. In young children, this medication may cause agitation/excitement instead of drowsiness.This product is safe to use during pregnancy.Based on information from related drugs, this medication may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug include: antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray).Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as urine drug screening tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: large pupils, flushing, fever, hallucinations, weakness, shaking (tremor), muscle twitching, loss of consciousness, seizures. In children, excitement may occur first, and may be followed by loss of coordination, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, seizures.
NOTES: Do not take for several days before allergy testing because test results can be affected.Keep all medical and lab appointments.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all products away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised March 2024. Copyright(c) 2024 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
