You may have heard about Doxylamine succinate, an over-the-counter medication commonly used to treat insomnia and other disorders. But how much should you consume, and what are this medication’s potential side effects and benefits?
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of doxylamine succinate, its effectiveness in treating short and long-term insomnia, the risk of overdose, potential side effects, and the recommended dosage.
What is Doxylamine?
Doxylamine succinate is an antihistamine primarily used as a sleep aid. This medication is also used for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP) and allergic rhinitis. It blocks brain histamine receptors, which help induce drowsiness and promote sleep. Doxylamine succinate exerts its effects by acting on the H1 receptor. The impact of doxylamine on sleep onset is relatively minimal because it takes a longer time to reach its maximum concentration in the bloodstream.
Doxylamine is available over the counter and can be found in various sleep aids, including Unisom SleepTabs.
Does doxylamine work for insomnia in the short and long term?
Doxylamine is generally adequate for the short-term relief of occasional insomnia. It helps individuals fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep longer.
However, as with many sleeping medications, doxylamine succinate is not recommended for long-term use, as it can lose its effectiveness over time and lead to dependence.
Doxylamine Side Effects
Doxylamine succinate is generally well-tolerated, but it may cause some side effects, such as:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Constipation
- Difficulty urinating
If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
Can you overdose on doxylamine?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on doxylamine succinate. Overdose can lead to toxic effects, serious health complications, and even death.
Be careful and always follow the healthcare professional’s recommendations and the manufacturer’s guidelines on dosing when taking doxylamine or any other medication.
If you suspect an overdose or experience any unusual side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
How much doxylamine succinate can I take?
The recommended dosage of doxylamine succinate for adults to treat insomnia is 25 mg to 50 mg once per day, taken 30 minutes before bedtime.
Following the dosing instructions on the product label is essential or consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
It’s critical to mention that doxylamine may interact with other medications.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare professional before using doxylamine, as it may have potential risks for the developing baby.
Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, glaucoma, urinary retention, and others, should use doxylamine with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene is cultivating habits, behaviors, and surroundings that encourage restful, rejuvenating sleep. It’s the secret sauce to combating insomnia and sleep-related issues, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the day!
Improving sleep hygiene can significantly impact the quality of your sleep. Here are some quick tips to help you:
- Maintain a sleep schedule every day: Go to bed and wake up simultaneously each day, even on weekends. This will help in regulating your sleep-wake-cycle or internal clock.
- Calm yourself before bed: Engage in calming activities before bedtime. For example, reading, taking a warm bath, and meditation.
- Make your sleep environment comfortable: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. You can also invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows. Remember that this is your sacred time to rest, the most important one of the day.
- Limit exposure to screens before bedtime: Blue light emitted by screens can disturb your sleep because it tricks your eyes into thinking that it is daytime. So it’s ideal to limit electronic devices to at least an hour before bedtime and try using blue light-blocking glasses if necessary.
- Be mindful of your diet: Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime. These can disrupt your sleep or make it harder to fall asleep.
- Get regular exercise in your routine: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity daily or most days of the week, but avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
