Unisom: What Is It and Where to Buy It?
Unisom is a brand name for a sleeping aid that contains the active ingredient diphenhydramine. It is a popular product used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. It is available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid. It is also available as a generic drug, meaning that it is made without a brand name and is sold under its chemical name.
Common Use
The primary use of Unisom is to treat insomnia. It is a sedating antihistamine, meaning that it is used to reduce the symptoms of allergies. It is also used to treat other conditions such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. It can help with the symptoms of colds and the flu as well.
Dosage and Direction
The usual adult dose of Unisom is 25-50 mg taken orally at bedtime. It can be taken with or without food. It should not be taken with alcohol. The dose may be increased up to 100 mg per day, depending on the severity of the condition being treated. It is important to follow the instructions given by your doctor for the best results.
Precautions
Before taking Unisom, talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to diphenhydramine or any other medications, if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you have any other medical conditions. Do not take Unisom without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Unisom may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Contraindications
Do not take Unisom if you are taking any other medications that contain diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, Tylenol PM, or Advil PM. Do not take Unisom if you have taken a MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects of Unisom may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, or vomiting. If any of these side effects are severe or do not go away, contact your doctor. Serious side effects may include shortness of breath, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, and difficulty urinating. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious side effects.
Drug Interactions
Unisom may interact with other medications, including other antihistamines, MAO inhibitors, sedatives, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and seizure medications. Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Unisom, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
An overdose of Unisom may be fatal. If you think you have taken too much of this medication, seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include drowsiness, confusion, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, and seizures.
Storage
Store Unisom at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication out of the reach of children and pets.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.
