Why is this medication prescribed?

Aldex AN (Generic Doxylamine) is an antihistamine that is primarily used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold. These symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. Doxylamine, the active ingredient in Aldex AN, is also commonly used as a short-term treatment for insomnia due to its sedative properties.

• Allergy Relief: For symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy/watery eyes.
• Cold Symptoms: To alleviate symptoms of the common cold.
• Insomnia: As a sleep aid to help with difficulty in falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Nausea and Vomiting: In combination with other medications, it may be prescribed to manage nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (though typically in combination with pyridoxine).

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a general guideline for its application:

• Dosage: The dosage depends on the condition being treated, the patient’s age, and their response to the medication. It’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the directions on the product package.
• For Sleep Aid: Typically, it is taken 30 minutes before bedtime. It should not be used for more than 2 weeks without consulting a doctor.
• For Allergy or Cold Symptoms: The medication can be taken with or without food, usually once a day, or as directed by your doctor. It may be taken before bedtime due to its sedative effects.
• Drowsiness: Doxylamine can cause significant drowsiness. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the sedative effects.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, as doxylamine can interact with other drugs, especially other sedatives or medications that cause drowsiness.
• Not for Long-Term Use: The medication is generally recommended for short-term use, particularly when used as a sleep aid.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of this medication.

Other uses for this medicine

• Motion Sickness: Though not as common, doxylamine may be used to prevent or treat symptoms of motion sickness due to its sedative and antiemetic (preventing vomiting) properties.
• Cough Suppressant: Some formulations of doxylamine may be included in combination medications that aim to suppress coughs, especially at night.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Aldex AN:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, particularly to doxylamine, other antihistamines, or any other substances. This is important to avoid allergic reactions.
• Glaucoma: Doxylamine may increase intraocular pressure, so it should be used with caution in people with glaucoma.
• Asthma or Respiratory Problems: Doxylamine may thicken mucus, which could worsen breathing problems.
• Enlarged Prostate/Urinary Retention: The medication can cause or worsen urinary retention, so it should be used cautiously if you have an enlarged prostate or other urinary issues.
• Heart Problems: Doxylamine may cause or exacerbate certain heart conditions, particularly in those with a history of arrhythmias or heart disease.
• Liver/Kidney Disease: These conditions may affect the body’s ability to process the medication, leading to increased side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While doxylamine is often used to treat morning sickness, it should still be used under medical supervision, especially in the first trimester. Doxylamine may pass into breast milk and could have adverse effects on a nursing infant, such as unusual drowsiness or irritability.
• Drowsiness and Sedation: Since doxylamine causes drowsiness, avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in any activity that requires full alertness until you know how the medication affects you. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Drug Interactions: Combining doxylamine with other sedatives, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids, can increase the risk of excessive drowsiness or respiratory depression. If you are taking or have recently taken MAO inhibitors (a type of antidepressant), doxylamine may interact with these medications, leading to serious side effects.
• Overuse or Misuse: Doxylamine should not be used as a long-term treatment for insomnia or other conditions. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor. Follow the prescribed dose carefully. Overuse can lead to severe drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, flushing, or difficulty urinating.
• Children and Elderly: Doxylamine is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age unless directed by a doctor. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects, particularly drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, or trouble urinating, which could increase the risk of falls.

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping the use of Aldex AN to ensure it is appropriate for your specific condition and circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Food and Alcohol: While there are no specific dietary restrictions, avoid consuming alcohol while taking Aldex AN, as it can increase the risk of drowsiness and other side effects.
• Take with or without Food: Aldex AN can be taken with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose for Insomnia: If you are taking Aldex AN as a sleep aid and miss a dose, skip the missed dose if it is close to bedtime. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Taking it too late at night may cause morning drowsiness.
• Missed Dose for Other Uses: If you are taking Aldex AN for allergy or cold symptoms and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aldex AN, which typically combines antihistamines and decongestants, can cause a range of side effects. Here are some common and less common side effects to be aware of:

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness: One of the most common side effects of antihistamines.
• Dry Mouth: Antihistamines can reduce saliva production, leading to a dry mouth.
• Dizziness: Some people may feel lightheaded or unsteady.
• Headache: Headaches can occur, possibly due to changes in blood pressure or dehydration.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience an upset stomach or nausea.
• Nervousness or Restlessness: The stimulant effect of some decongestants can cause these symptoms.
• Difficulty Sleeping: Due to the stimulating effects of decongestants, sleep disturbances may occur.

Less Common or Serious Side Effects:

• Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia): Decongestants can sometimes cause an increased heart rate.
• High Blood Pressure: Particularly with decongestants, there may be a risk of elevated blood pressure.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms might include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Confusion or Hallucinations: More rare but possible, particularly if the medication is taken in larger doses than recommended.
• Vision Problems: Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.
• Urinary Retention: Difficulty urinating, which can be more common with antihistamines.
• Mild Side Effects: For common side effects like drowsiness or dry mouth, you might manage them by adjusting the dose or timing of the medication. Drinking water and staying hydrated can help with dry mouth.
• Severe Side Effects: If you experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe dizziness, seek medical attention immediately.

Always follow the dosage instructions on the label or provided by your healthcare provider, and consult them if you have any concerns about side effects or interactions with other medications.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Aldex AN:

• Storage:
  • Store Aldex AN at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Keep the medication in a dry place, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near a sink where it may get wet.
  • Keep Aldex AN in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not use the medication after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
• Disposal:
  • If you need to dispose of Aldex AN, do not simply throw it in the trash. Instead, follow any specific disposal instructions provided on the label or by your pharmacist.
  • If available, consider using a drug take-back program. These programs allow you to safely dispose of unused medications.
  • If no take-back program is available, mix the medication with an unpalatable substance (e.g., cat litter or coffee grounds), place it in a sealed bag, and throw it in the household trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of an overdose of Aldex AN may include severe drowsiness, dizziness, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
• If you suspect an overdose, call your local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the U.S.) or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• You can also contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the U.S.) for guidance. Provide them with information about the medication, the amount taken, and the time of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, which may include drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, and constipation. If you experience any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider of all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as Aldex AN may interact with other drugs.
• Precautions: Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you, as it can cause drowsiness or impair your reactions.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Aldex AN, as it may enhance the drowsiness effect and increase the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using Aldex AN.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the packaging label for the correct usage and dosage.