What is the difference between doxylamine succinate and diphenhydramine hydrochloride

Over-the-counter sleep aids do have fewer side effects than prescription sleep aids, but they are still important to be aware of. They include:. There are instances where over-the-counter sleep aids pose a stronger risk for certain groups of people. If you fall into one of the following categories, you should probably avoid sleep aids altogether or at the very least consult your doctor first before using them. Generally, most OTC sleep aids should be avoided by children younger than 12 years old.

Depending on their age, children have different physiologies than we do as adults. Taking the same dosage or medication as recommended for adults can be very unsafe for children. Doctors even recommend that the pediatric dosage be adjusted for natural sleep aids like melatonin.

Unfortunately, sleeping well is important to a healthy pregnancy. Consult with your doctor before using natural sleep aids, too. One study of rats found that melatonin negatively impacted the size, health, and mortality rate of their pups.

If you are temporarily sick and are taking other over-the-counter medications to relieve your symptoms, they may negatively interact with a sleep aid. Since most over-the-counter sleep aids are antihistamines, and you are also taking antihistamines for a cold or allergy, you may inadvertently overdose and cause adverse side effects. For a long-term fix to your insomnia, healthcare professionals, sleep experts, and researchers alike recommend employing behavioral techniques.

Studies consistently show that lifestyle modifications and behavior changes can solve a multitude of sleep problems for most people. Review the following list of research-backed sleep tips. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn More. June 1, Written by Keith Cushner. Quick Overview Many Americans turn to sleep aids to relieve their insomnia. Side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. Doxylamine Succinate The main way to distinguish between different OTC sleep aids is by looking at their active ingredients.

Doxylamine Succinate Doxylamine Succinate is the stronger of the two sedating antihistamines. Natural vs. Prescription Drugs Sleep aids fall into three main categories: over-the-counter, natural or herbal supplements, and prescription drugs. Over-the-counter sleep aids are typically antihistamines. Their side effects are typically mild, such as drowsiness the next day, which is why they can be sold over the counter.

However, there are instances where these can be unsafe for people. Natural sleep aids include dietary and herbal supplements containing ingredients like melatonin , valerian , or chamomile.

Like over-the-counter sleep aids, these have not proven effective as a treatment for long-term insomnia. Natural sleep aids may come in the form of herbal teas , pills, or ointments. Prescription drugs target different parts of the brain to induce sleep.

Doxepin Silenor blocks histamine receptors, enabling the person to stay asleep throughout the night, while zolpidem Ambien and others help induce sleep by activating the neurotransmitter GABA and binding it to GABA receptors. The OTC sleep medications rely on the sedating effects of the antihistamine to facilitate sleep. If patients attempt to use an OTC sleep aid, they should immediately discontinue use if they experience any adverse side effects such as:.

Tolerance to the sedative effects of antihistamines can develop quickly—the longer they are taken the less likely they are to induce sleep. Many over-the-counter sleep aids can result in the person feeling groggy and unwell the next day. This is the so-called hangover effect. Also, these sleep medications may interact negatively with other medications, so a doctor should be consulted prior to using these for a sleeping problem.

There is no recommended dose for valerian root. Most valerian supplements are formulated in doses ranging from mg to mg and are considered safe within this range. Due to the lack of safety research, children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers should not take valerian root. Side effects of valerian root tend to be mild and may include headache, dizziness, itchiness, upset stomach, dry mouth, vivid dreams, and daytime drowsiness.

Although rare, liver damage has been known to occur, usually due to the overuse of valerian root or the use of "wild-crafted" dried root which may be contaminated with heavy metals, fertilizers, and other toxic substances.

Stop taking valerian root if use if you have signs of liver injury, including abdominal pain, nausea, clay-colored stools, dark urine, extreme fatigue, or jaundice yellowing of the eyes or skin. Insomnia doesn't always require medication. In fact, improved sleep hygiene often is all that's needed to get a good night's rest. This includes not eating before bedtime, turning off electronics at least an hour before sleep, keeping the temperature cool, and ensuring that the bedroom is as dark and quiet as possible.

If insomnia persists despite your best efforts, see a healthcare provider. A prescription sleep aid can be very useful in treating occasional insomnia if used correctly and with supervision. Tossing and turning night over night can have a big impact on your quality of life.

Our free guide can help you get the rest you need. Sign up for our newsletter and get it free. Over-the-counter medications containing diphenhydramine and doxylamine used by older adults to improve sleep.

Int J Clin Pharm. Pharmacological treatment of insomnia. Javaheri S, Redline S. Insomnia and risk of cardiovascular disease. Serotonin syndrome presenting with concomitant tramadol and diphenhydramine use: A case report of an unlikely side-effect. Meta-analysis: melatonin for the treatment of primary sleep disorders.

PLoS One. Herbal medicine for insomnia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Med Rev. A case of steroid-responsive valerian-associated hepatitis. Intern Med J. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.

Your privacy is important to us. Ramelteon Rozerem Yes Yes No. Doxepin Silenor Yes No Yes. Was this article helpful? Yes No. Alex Dimitriu Psychiatrist MD. Sateia, M. Long-term efficacy and tolerability of lemborexant compared with placebo in adults with insomnia disorder: results from the phase 3 randomized clinical trial SUNRISE 2. Sleep, 43 9 , zsaa National Library of Medicine. Everitt, H. Antidepressants for insomnia in adults. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 5 5 , CD Doxepin Insomnia.

Culpepper, L. The primary care companion for CNS disorders, 17 6 , Using Dietary Supplements Wisely. Herb-Drug Interactions. Tainted Sleep Aid Products. Erland, L. Grigg-Damberger, M. Creeley, C. Brain sciences, 9 9 , Learn more about Sleep Medications. There's no better time to start the journey to improving your sleep. Get helpful tips, expert information, videos, and more delivered to your inbox.

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. Close Privacy Overview This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website.

Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies.

But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Necessary Necessary. Non Necessary non-necessary. The Sleep Foundation fact-checking guidelines are as follows: We only cite reputable sources when researching our guides and articles.

These include peer-reviewed journals, government reports, academic and medical associations, and interviews with credentialed medical experts and practitioners. All scientific data and information must be backed up by at least one reputable source.