Doxylamine succinate is available as a generic medication [1][2]. It is marketed under various brand names, including Unisom SleepTabs, and is also found in combination with other active ingredients in products for cold, cough, and allergy symptoms [3][4].
What is Doxylamine Succinate Used For?
Doxylamine succinate is primarily used as a short-acting antihistamine for the relief of occasional sleeplessness [1][2]. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms and promotes wakefulness [5]. It is also used in combination products to treat symptoms associated with the common cold, allergies, and coughs, such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes [3][4].
How Does Doxylamine Succinate Work?
As an H1 antihistamine, doxylamine succinate acts on histamine receptors in the brain. By blocking these receptors, it reduces the stimulating effects of histamine, leading to drowsiness and facilitating sleep [5]. Its anticholinergic properties may also contribute to its sedative effects [6].
When Does Doxylamine Succinate Go Off Patent?
Doxylamine succinate has been available as a generic for many years, indicating its patents have long since expired [7]. For current patent information on specific formulations or combinations involving doxylamine succinate, resources like DrugPatentWatch.com can provide detailed insights [8].
What Are the Side Effects of Doxylamine Succinate?
The most common side effect of doxylamine succinate is drowsiness or sedation [1][2]. Other potential side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, dizziness, and impaired coordination [2][6]. It is important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking doxylamine succinate due to its potential to impair alertness [1].
Can Doxylamine Succinate Be Used During Pregnancy?
Doxylamine succinate is used in combination with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) as a prescription treatment for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), commonly known as morning sickness [9][10]. This combination is FDA-approved and has demonstrated safety and efficacy for this indication [9]. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication during pregnancy [10].
What Other Sleep Aids Are Available?
Besides doxylamine succinate, other over-the-counter sleep aids include diphenhydramine (found in Benadryl, ZzzQuil) and melatonin [11]. Prescription options for insomnia can include benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, and certain antidepressants [12]. It is advisable to discuss sleep concerns with a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment [11][12].
How Does Doxylamine Succinate Compare to Other Antihistamines?
Doxylamine succinate is a first-generation antihistamine known for its strong sedative effects [5][6]. Other first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine share similar sedative properties and side effect profiles [11]. Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are generally less sedating and are more commonly used for allergy relief without causing significant drowsiness [13].
Where Can I Find Doxylamine Succinate?
Doxylamine succinate is widely available over-the-counter in pharmacies and drug stores as a sleep aid [1][2]. It can also be found in various combination cold and allergy medications [3][4].
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Sources
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/medgen/Drug_Formulation/GN:D004424
2. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1479/doxylamine-oral/details
3. [https://www.cvs.com/shop/unisom-sleeptabs-sleep aid-doxylamine-succinate-tablets-prodid-100325](https://www.cvs.com/shop/unisom-sleeptabs-sleep aid-doxylamine-succinate-tablets-prodid-100325)
4. https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/wal-tussin-dm-max-liquid-softgels/ID=prod6358645-product
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682097.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/doxylamine-succinate,-diphenhydramine.html
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5407082/
8. https://drugpatentwatch.com/
9. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-nausea-and-vomiting-pregnancy
10. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-answers/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy
11. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/in-depth/sleep-aids/art-20047850
12. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/pharmacologic-therapy-for-insomnia-in-adults-beyond-the-basics
13. https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/allergic-rhinitis