Doxylamine is an antihistamine used for short-term treatment of insomnia. Doxylamine is available alone in a
nonprescription product for sleep and in combination with nonprescription drugs to treat
symptoms of allergy, colds, and upper respiratory infections.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid:Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this
medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.
Henbane*
Depletion or interference
None known
Side effect reduction/prevention
None known
Supportive interaction
None known
Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability
None known
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Herbs
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
Antihistamines, including doxylamine, can cause “anticholinergic” side effects
such as dryness of mouth and heart palpitations. Henbane also has anticholinergic activity and
side effects. Therefore, use with doxylamine could increase the risk of anticholinergic side
effects;1 however, apparently no interactions have yet been reported with
doxylamine and henbane. Henbane should not be taken except by prescription from a physician
trained in its use, as it is extremely toxic.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Doxylamine causes drowsiness.2 Alcohol may intensify this effect and increase the
risk of accidental injury.3 To prevent problems, people taking doxylamine or
doxylamine-containing products should avoid alcohol.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E
Monographs. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council, 1998, 146.
2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Nonprescription Sleep
Aids. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and
Comparisons, Dec 1993, 273e.
3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Nonprescription Sleep
Aids. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO, Facts and
Comparisons, Dec 1993, 273e.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience,
or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur
in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over
the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist
for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in
prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.
