Unisom SleepTabs represent a clinically tested, non-prescription sleep aid containing doxylamine succinate as its active ingredient. This antihistamine-based formulation works by blocking histamine receptors in the brain, effectively promoting drowsiness and facilitating sleep onset. With decades of trusted use and FDA approval for over-the-counter sleep assistance, Unisom provides a reliable solution for adults experiencing occasional sleeplessness. The product delivers targeted sleep support without narcotic components while maintaining a well-established safety profile when used as directed.

Features

• Contains 25 mg doxylamine succinate per tablet
• Non-habit forming antihistamine sleep aid
• No analgesic components (pain reliever free)
• Rapid-dissolve tablet formulation
• Alcohol-free and dye-free composition
• Single-active-ingredient formulation
• Available without prescription
• Manufactured under cGMP standards

Benefits

• Promotes faster sleep onset by reducing time needed to fall asleep
• Improves sleep maintenance throughout the night
• Provides next-day alertness without grogginess when used as directed
• Eliminates the need for prescription sleep medications in appropriate cases
• Offers predictable sleep-wake cycle regulation for occasional use
• Reduces nighttime awakenings for more consolidated rest

Common use

Unisom SleepTabs are indicated for the relief of occasional sleeplessness characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, or early morning waking. The medication is appropriate for adults and children 12 years of age and older who experience transient insomnia related to stress, travel, or schedule disruptions. Healthcare providers may also recommend Unisom for short-term sleep management during periods of adjustment or for patients who cannot tolerate prescription sleep agents. The product should not be used for more than two weeks without consulting a healthcare provider to evaluate underlying sleep disorders.

Dosage and direction

Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Take one tablet (25 mg doxylamine succinate) 30 minutes before bedtime. Swallow whole with water—do not crush, chew, or break tablets. Maximum dosage: Do not exceed one tablet in 24 hours. Duration of use: Use for no more than 2 weeks continuously unless directed by a healthcare provider. Administration notes: Take only when you can devote 7-8 hours to sleep. Avoid taking with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants. Do not use with other products containing diphenhydramine, doxylamine, or other sedating antihistamines.

Precautions

• Not for use in children under 12 years of age without medical supervision
• Avoid activities requiring mental alertness (driving, operating machinery) for at least 6-8 hours after ingestion
• Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, or respiratory conditions
• May enhance effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without physician consultation
• Elderly patients may experience increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects
• Discontinue use and consult a physician if sleeplessness persists beyond 2 weeks

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to doxylamine succinate or any product components
• Patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping MAOI therapy
• Individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma
• Patients with severe urinary retention or gastrointestinal obstruction
• Those with severe hepatic impairment or respiratory depression
• Concurrent use with other sedating antihistamines or sleep aids

Possible side effects

Common effects (≥1% incidence): Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth/nose/throat, headache, gastrointestinal discomfort. Less common effects: Constipation, blurred vision, urinary retention, excitation (especially in children), palpitations. Rare but serious effects: Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling), difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness. Most side effects diminish with continued use or dosage adjustment. Contact healthcare provider if side effects persist or worsen.

Drug interaction

• CNS depressants: Enhanced sedative effects with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, barbiturates
• Anticholinergic agents: Additive effects with tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics, antispasmodics
• MAO inhibitors: Risk of hypertensive crisis and enhanced anticholinergic effects
• Other sleep medications: Potentiated sedation with zolpidem, eszopiclone, ramelteon
• Antihypertensives: Possible potentiation of blood pressure-lowering effects
• Enzyme inhibitors: Medications inhibiting CYP450 enzymes may increase doxylamine concentrations

Missed dose

Since Unisom is taken as needed for sleep, the concept of a “missed dose” does not apply in the traditional sense. Do not take extra tablets to make up for a missed dose. If you did not take Unisom and find yourself unable to sleep, take one tablet only if you can remain in bed for at least 7-8 hours. Never double your dose or take more than one tablet within 24 hours.

Overdose

Symptoms: Severe drowsiness, confusion, agitation, nervousness, dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, seizures, respiratory depression. Management: Seek immediate medical attention or contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Provide information about time of ingestion and amount consumed. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal if presented early, along with monitoring of vital signs and respiratory function.

Storage

Store at room temperature (68-77°F/20-25°C) in original container. Keep tightly closed and protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not transfer to alternative containers. Discard any medication that shows signs of deterioration (discoloration, unusual odor). Do not flush medications; dispose of unused medication through medication take-back programs.

Disclaimer

This information describes Unisom SleepTabs (doxylamine succinate 25 mg) but does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have medical conditions or take other medications. Use only as directed. Individual results may vary. The manufacturer is not liable for incorrect use or adverse outcomes. Product information subject to change; always check packaging for current details.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that 85% of users report improved sleep latency within 30 minutes of ingestion. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate 78% of occasional users achieve restful sleep without next-day impairment. Healthcare providers frequently recommend Unisom as a first-line OTC option for transient insomnia due to its predictable pharmacokinetics and established safety profile. Real-world evidence supports its effectiveness for jet lag, shift work sleep disorder, and stress-related sleeplessness when used appropriately.