Unisom SleepTabs, containing the active ingredient doxylamine succinate, is an over-the-counter sleep aid specifically formulated for the short-term treatment of occasional insomnia. As a first-generation ethanolamine antihistamine, it exerts its sedative effects through potent histamine H1 receptor antagonism within the central nervous system. This mechanism promotes sleep onset and helps reduce nighttime awakenings, providing a non-habit forming option for adults seeking relief from temporary sleep difficulties. Its efficacy is well-documented, making it a trusted choice for individuals struggling to fall asleep.

Features

• Active Ingredient: 25 mg of doxylamine succinate per tablet
• Drug Class: Ethanolamine-class antihistamine (H1-receptor antagonist)
• Formulation: Small, easy-to-swallow coated tablets
• Onset of Action: Typically within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion
• Duration of Effect: Provides up to 6-8 hours of sleep support
• Non-Habit Forming: When used as directed for short-term management
• Dye-Free Formula: No artificial coloring agents

Benefits

• Promotes rapid sleep onset, helping you fall asleep faster.
• Reduces frequency of nighttime awakenings for more consolidated rest.
• Provides a non-narcotic, non-habit forming solution for occasional sleep troubles.
• Avoids the grogginess associated with some prescription sleep medications when used appropriately.
• Offers predictable sedative effects due to well-understood pharmacokinetics.
• Enables improved daytime functioning through better nighttime sleep quality.

Common use

Unisom SleepTabs are indicated for the relief of occasional sleeplessness and difficulty falling asleep. They are appropriate for adults experiencing transient insomnia related to stress, travel, or temporary schedule disruptions. The medication is particularly useful for individuals who have trouble initiating sleep rather than maintaining sleep throughout the night. Clinical use should be limited to short-term management, typically not exceeding two weeks of continuous use without consulting a healthcare provider.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is one tablet (25 mg doxylamine succinate) taken 30 minutes before bedtime. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. This medication should be taken only when you can devote a full 7-8 hours to sleep. Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours. For individuals with hepatic impairment or elderly patients, a reduced dosage may be appropriate under medical supervision.

Precautions

Exercise caution when engaging in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating machinery the day after use. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication as it may enhance sedative effects. Use with caution in patients with conditions that may be exacerbated by anticholinergic effects, including narrow-angle glaucoma, peptic ulcer, urinary retention, or prostate hypertrophy. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of antihistamines and may experience confusion, dizziness, or sedation.

Contraindications

Unisom SleepTabs are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to doxylamine succinate or any component of the formulation. Contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, stenosing peptic ulcer, pyloroduodenal obstruction, or bladder neck obstruction. Should not be used in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy. Not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, nose and throat, blurred vision, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Less frequently, patients may experience headache, excitation, nervousness, palpitations, or tachycardia. Rare but serious side effects include severe allergic reactions, difficulty urinating, and irregular heartbeat. The anticholinergic effects may cause constipation and urinary retention in susceptible individuals. Most side effects are dose-dependent and typically diminish with continued use.

Drug interaction

Doxylamine succinate may potentiate the effects of other central nervous system depressants including alcohol, barbiturates, tranquilizers, and sedatives. Concurrent use with anticholinergic drugs may result in additive effects. MAO inhibitors may prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. May interact with medications that affect cytochrome P450 enzymes. Caution is advised when combining with other medications having sedative properties, including opioid analgesics, benzodiazepines, and certain antidepressants.

Missed dose

Since Unisom SleepTabs are taken on an as-needed basis for sleep initiation, there is no dosing schedule and thus no concern about missed doses. Do not take this medication if you have less than 7-8 hours available for sleep. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, agitation, nervousness, dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, fever, hallucinations, seizures, or coma. In severe cases, overdose may lead to respiratory depression and cardiovascular collapse. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be indicated if performed soon after ingestion. Physostigmine may be considered in severe cases with life-threatening symptoms under medical supervision.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep the bottle tightly closed and protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use if the blister pack is broken or tablets show signs of deterioration. Properly discard any unused medication after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. Individual responses to medication may vary. Use only as directed on the product labeling.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated that doxylamine succinate significantly reduces sleep latency and improves sleep quality compared to placebo. In randomized controlled trials, patients reported a mean reduction of 20-30 minutes in time to fall asleep. User reviews consistently note effectiveness in sleep initiation, though some report next-day drowsiness particularly with higher sensitivity or inadequate sleep duration. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recognizes antihistamines as an option for transient insomnia management. Many healthcare professionals recommend Unisom as a first-line OTC option for short-term sleep difficulties.