it's a sleep aid. is it another name for a benzodiazepine?
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it's a sleep aid. is it another name for a benzodiazepine?
Also indexed as: Decapryn®, Nighttime Sleep Aid®, Sleep Aid®, Unisom®
Combination drugs: Nyquil®, Nyquil® Hot Therapy Powder
Introduction
Herb interactions
Food interactions
Interactions summary
References
Doxylamine is an antihistamine used for short-term treatment of insomnia. Doxylamine is available alone in a nonprescription product for sleep and in combination with nonprescription drugs to treat symptoms of allergy, colds, and upper respiratory infections.
Interactions with Herbs
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
Antihistamines, including doxylamine, can cause “anticholinergic” side effects such as dryness of mouth and heart palpitations. Henbane also has anticholinergic activity and side effects. Therefore, use with doxylamine could increase the risk of anticholinergic side effects;1 however, apparently no interactions have yet been reported with doxylamine and henbane. Henbane should not be taken except by prescription from a physician trained in its use, as it is extremely toxic.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Doxylamine causes drowsiness.2 Alcohol may intensify this effect and increase the risk of accidental injury.3 To prevent problems, people taking doxylamine or doxylamine-containing products should avoid alcohol.