What is Dormin?
Dormin is a powerful antihistamine used to treat cold and allergy symptoms such as sneezing.
Dormin can also be used to treat motion sickness and induce sleep. It is also prescribed to treat some symptoms of Parkinson's disease. This sleep medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. There are several brands and forms of diphenhydramine available. This leaflet does not list all brands. Dormin can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Dormin
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or facial or throat swelling - seek immediate medical assistance!
Dormin can cause serious side effects. Dormin should be stopped immediately, and you should consult your doctor if:
- Severe sleepiness
- Urination that is painful or difficult
In older adults, side effects like dryness of the mouth and constipation may be more common.
Dormin can cause the following side effects:
- Drowsiness;
- Dry eyes and blurred vision
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Reduced urination
- Constipation;
- Feeling restless or excited, especially in children
- After nighttime use, you may feel drowsy or have a "hangover".
There may be other side effects. Call your doctor immediately if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact the FDA's Side Effect Reporting Hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report them.
Similar/related drugs
Quviviq, prednisone, hydroxyzine, ondansetron, fluticasone nasal, Lorazepam, and montelukast
Warnings
Dormin should be used exactly as directed. Too much Dormin may cause serious heart problems or seizures. It can also lead to comas and death. This medicine should not be used to induce sleep in children under 12 years of age.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to Dormin, it is best not to use this product.
If you have had any of the following:
- Urination or prostate problems;
- Asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), and other breathing disorders;
- Glaucoma;
- A thyroid disorder.
Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or nursing. This medicine may reduce breast milk production.
How to take Dormin?
Dormin should only be used as directed by your doctor or on the label. Dormin should only be used for a short time until symptoms are resolved. Too much Dormin may cause serious heart problems. It can also lead to seizures, coma, or even death. Follow the directions on the label when giving Dormin as a medicine to children. Do not use this medicine to put a child to sleep. Misuse of antihistamines can lead to death in very young children. Take Dormin 30 minutes prior to a situation that may cause motion sickness. (For example, a long ride in a car, an airplane or boat trip, rides at amusement parks, etc.) Take this medicine at mealtimes and before bedtime until you are no longer in a situation that causes motion sickness. Take Dormin 30 minutes prior to bedtime as a sleep aid.
The chewable tablet must be chewed before it can be swallowed. Measuring liquid medicine is important. Use the provided dosing device or a dose-measuring tool (not a spoon). Only remove an oral disintegrating tablet when you're ready to use it. Place the tablet in your mouth without chewing.As your tablet disintegrates, take several gulps before swallowing. If your condition is not improving after using Dormin or you develop a fever, a headache, or a skin rash, call your doctor. Do not use it for more than two weeks to treat insomnia or cold symptoms, or seven days to treat allergy or cold symptoms. Allergy skin tests can be affected by Dormin. Dormin can affect the results of allergic skin tests. Tell your doctor if you use it. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Dormin can be used as needed, and there is no set schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip any missed dose. Never take two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. A diphenhydramine overdose can be fatal. Overdose symptoms include agitation and hallucinations.
What should be avoided?
Dormin can affect your reactions. Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you are sure of how they will affect you. You may be unable to react properly. Diphenhydramine can be exacerbated by alcohol. Before using any other medication that contains Dormin, consult your doctor or pharmacist. You can use this medicine for sleeping, for allergy or cold symptoms, or to treat skin itch. Overdosing on this medication can lead to death.
Interaction with other drug
Before using Dormin, consult your doctor or pharmacist. This is especially important if you are taking any medications that may cause drowsiness, such as sleep medication, opioid medications, muscle relaxers, or medicines for anxiety or seizures. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using. Included are prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not include all possible interactions.
