Home

doxilamina

Doxilamina, also spelled doxylamine, is a first-generation antihistamine used primarily as a short-term sleep aid and, in some formulations, as a component of over-the-counter cold and allergy products. It is available in various countries, often as the succinate salt (doxylamine succinate), alone or in combination with analgesics, decongestants, or cough suppressants.

Medical uses and formulation

Doxylamine is commonly used to help with transient insomnia, particularly sleep onset or short sleep duration

Mechanism of action

Doxylamine acts as an antagonist of histamine H1 receptors, producing sedation by crossing the blood-brain barrier.

Pharmacokinetics and duration

Onset of action typically occurs within 15 to 60 minutes. The sedating effect can last through the

Adverse effects and precautions

Common adverse effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, and blurred vision. Anticholinergic effects can be

Interactions and availability

Doxylamine may interact with other sedatives, anticholinergic drugs, and, less commonly, MAO inhibitors. It is widely

problems.
In
many
OTC
products,
it
is
paired
with
other
ingredients
to
address
cold
or
allergy
symptoms
while
providing
sedation.
It
is
not
intended
for
long-term
treatment
of
insomnia.
It
also
has
anticholinergic
effects,
which
can
contribute
to
dry
mouth,
blurred
vision,
and
other
side
effects.
night,
and
the
overall
duration
of
action
may
extend
into
the
next
day
for
some
individuals.
In
adults,
the
elimination
half-life
is
approximately
8
to
12
hours,
with
variations
by
age
and
individual
metabolism.
more
troublesome
in
older
adults,
and
there
is
a
risk
of
cognitive
impairment
or
confusion.
Doxylamine
should
be
used
with
caution
in
individuals
with
glaucoma,
urinary
retention,
or
benign
prostatic
hyperplasia.
Alcohol
or
other
central
nervous
system
depressants
can
enhance
sedation.
Use
in
pregnancy
or
lactation
should
be
discussed
with
a
healthcare
provider.
available
OTC
in
many
markets,
either
as
a
single-ingredient
sleep
aid
or
in
combination
products.