Unisom SleepTabs, containing the active ingredient doxylamine succinate, is a leading over-the-counter sleep aid designed to address occasional sleeplessness. As an antihistamine with sedative properties, it works by blocking histamine receptors in the brain, promoting drowsiness and facilitating sleep onset. Trusted by healthcare professionals and consumers alike, Unisom provides non-habit-forming support for those struggling with transient insomnia, helping to reset healthy sleep patterns without prescription strength medication when used as directed.

Features

• Active ingredient: Doxylamine succinate 25 mg per tablet
• Form: Easy-to-swallow tablet formulation
• Duration: Provides up to 8 hours of sleep support
• Non-habit forming when used as directed
• No aspirin or acetaminophen included
• Gluten-free formulation
• Manufactured under strict quality control standards

Benefits

• Promotes faster sleep onset by reducing time needed to fall asleep
• Supports uninterrupted sleep throughout the night
• Helps establish consistent sleep-wake cycles
• Provides next-day alertness without grogginess when used appropriately
• Offers non-prescription accessibility for occasional sleeplessness
• Delivers predictable sedative effects based on established pharmacokinetics

Common use

Unisom SleepTabs are indicated for the relief of occasional sleeplessness and difficulty falling asleep. The medication is particularly useful for individuals experiencing transient insomnia related to stress, travel, or schedule disruptions. Healthcare providers may also recommend it for short-term management of sleep difficulties while implementing behavioral sleep hygiene improvements. The product is not intended for chronic insomnia management without medical supervision.

Dosage and direction

Adults and children 12 years and older: Take one tablet (25 mg doxylamine succinate) 30 minutes before bedtime. Do not exceed one tablet in 24 hours. For optimal results, take only when you can devote 8 hours to sleep. Swallow tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew. Use for no more than 2 weeks continuously without consulting a healthcare provider. For children under 12 years, consult a physician before use.

Precautions

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Unisom as it may increase drowsiness and impairment. Exercise caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing activities requiring alertness the morning after use. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to sedative effects and should use lowest effective dose. Not recommended for individuals with breathing problems during sleep (sleep apnea). Consult healthcare provider if sleeplessness persists beyond 2 weeks, as this may indicate an underlying medical condition.

Contraindications

Do not use if you have known hypersensitivity to doxylamine succinate or any inactive ingredients. Contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, severe hypertension, bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or urinary retention. Not for use in children under 12 years without medical supervision. Avoid in pregnancy unless directed by physician due to potential fetal risks. Do not use while breastfeeding as doxylamine passes into breast milk.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth/nose/throat, and blurred vision. These typically diminish with continued use. Less frequently reported effects include constipation, stomach upset, headache, or increased chest congestion. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include difficulty urinating, irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or mental/mood changes. Allergic reactions, though rare, may present as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Drug interactions

Unisom may potentiate effects of other CNS depressants including alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, barbiturates, and opioid pain medications. Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors may prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects. May interact with medications for depression, Parkinson’s disease, and urinary retention. Antihistamines may counteract effects of histamine-testing agents. Consult healthcare provider before combining with any prescription medications, particularly antidepressants, antipsychotics, or anti-seizure medications.

Missed dose

If you forget to take Unisom at your scheduled time, take it only if you can still get 8 hours of sleep. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed tablet. Taking medication too late may cause excessive morning drowsiness. If you miss a dose entirely, simply resume your regular schedule the following night. Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period.

Overdose

In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, agitation, nervousness, dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, fever, shaking, insomnia, hallucinations, or seizures. In severe cases, overdose may lead to respiratory depression, coma, or cardiovascular collapse. Treatment is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and monitoring of vital signs.

Storage

Store at room temperature (68-77°F/20-25°C) in original container. Keep tightly closed and protect from moisture and light. Do not store in bathroom medicine cabinet due to humidity fluctuations. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Properly discard any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Do not flush medications; consult pharmacist for proper disposal methods.

Disclaimer

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

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that doxylamine succinate significantly reduces sleep onset latency and improves sleep maintenance compared to placebo. In randomized controlled trials, 75% of participants reported improved sleep quality with minimal next-day impairment. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate high efficacy ratings for occasional use, with most users reporting satisfaction with sleep outcomes. Healthcare providers frequently recommend Unisom as a first-line OTC option for transient insomnia management.