Brand name:

Nytol

Pronounced: NIGHT-all

Generic name: Diphenhydramine hydrochloride

Other brand names: Simply Sleep, Sleepinal, Maximum Strength Unisom SleepGels

What this drug is used for

Nytol and the other over-the-counter sleep aids listed here all contain an antihistamine that tends to make you drowsy. They can be used to relieve occasional sleeplessness. Another variety of Unisom, not labeled "maximum strength," is also available. It contains a different antihistamine, but is subject to the same precautions as these products.

Nytol is available in caplets and double-strength softgels. Simply Sleep comes in caplets only. Sleepinal comes in softgels and capsules. Maximum Strength Unisom is available only in softgels.

How should you take this medication?

* NYTOL AND SIMPLY SLEEP
The usual dosage is 2 caplets or 1 softgel at bedtime as needed.

* SLEEPINAL AND UNISOM
The usual dosage is 1 capsule or softgel at bedtime as needed.

* STORAGE
Store at room temperature in a dry place. Protect softgels from light.

Do not take this medication if...

Unless your doctor approves, do not take these products if you have high pressure within the eye (glaucoma), an enlarged prostate gland, or a breathing problem such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.

Not for children under 12.

Special warnings about this medication

These products are for occasional use. If you have problems sleeping for more than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor. There may be a serious underlying problem.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

Do not combine these products with other medications containing diphenhydramine (for example, Benadryl), even if they are only applied to the skin.

If you are taking a tranquilizer such as Valium or Xanax, or a sleep aid such as Halcion or Seconal, do not take any of these products without your doctor's approval; the combination could cause extreme drowsiness. For the same reason, avoid alcohol while using one of these sleep aids.

Also avoid taking these products if you are taking any drug classified as an MAO inhibitor, including the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate. Such drugs increase the effects of the antihistamine in these products.

Overdosage

An overdose of these products will cause severe problems. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.

* Symptoms of overdose may include:
Coma, convulsions, delirium, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, dry mouth, flushed skin, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, nausea, tremor, vomiting

In a child, initial sleepiness may be followed by overexcitement.