What is Sominex?
Sominex, an antihistamine, is used for sneezing and other symptoms of colds or allergies, including runny noses, watery eyelids, hives, rashes, itching, etc. Sominex can also be used to treat motion sickness and induce sleep. Prescribed medications can also provide some relief for some symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease. This sleep medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Diphenhydramine is available in many different brands and forms. This leaflet does not list all brands. Sominex can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Sominex
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives, facial, lips or throat swelling and difficulty swallowing - seek medical assistance immediately!
Sominex can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Severe sleepiness
- Urination that is painful or difficult
Constipation and confusion are two common side effects among older adults.
Sominex side effects may include:
- 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. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Lorazepam, Melatonin, Zolpidem, Diphenhydramine, Ativan, and Ambien
Warnings
Use Sominex as directed. Too much sominex may cause serious heart problems or seizures. Coma and death may also result from this disease. 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 Sominex, then it is best not to use the product.
If you have had any of the following:
- Urination or prostate problems;
- Asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), or another breathing disorder
- Glaucoma;
- A thyroid disorder.
Before using this medication, consult your doctor if you're pregnant or nursing. This medicine may reduce breast milk production.
How to take Sominex?
Follow the directions on the label or those prescribed by your physician. Use Sominex only as needed to relieve your symptoms. Too much sominex may cause serious heart problems or seizures. It can also lead to comas and death. Follow the directions on the label when giving Sominex as a medicine to children. Do not use this medicine to put a child to sleep. Misuse of antihistamines can lead to a very young child's death.
Take Sominex for motion sickness. 30 minutes prior to a situation where you may experience 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 Sominex 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 either the provided dosing device or another suitable dose-measuring tool (not spoon). Only remove an oral disintegrating tablet when you're ready to use it. Place the tablet in your mouth without chewing.As the tablet dissolves, you should take several sips at different intervals. If your condition is not improving after taking Sominex or you develop a fever, headache, or skin rash, call your doctor.
Use Sominex no longer than two weeks for sleep disorders or seven days to treat colds or allergy symptoms. Sominex can interfere with allergy skin tests. Inform any doctor that treats you about your Sominex use. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You may not have a schedule for Sominex, as it is taken when needed. 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 vomiting, confusion, severe drowsiness, ringing in the ears, a very dry mouth and eyes, dilated pupils, rapid heartbeats, tremors, agitation, hallucinations, or seizures.
What should be avoided?
Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how Sominex affects you. You may be unable to react properly. Diphenhydramine can be exacerbated by alcohol.
Before using any other medicines that contain Sominex, consult your doctor or pharmacist. You can use medicines to treat sleep problems, allergy symptoms, or skin itch. Overdosing on this medication can lead to death.
Interaction with other drug
Before using Sominex, consult your doctor or pharmacist. This is especially important if you are taking any medications that cause drowsiness, such as sleep medication, opioid medication, muscle relaxers, or medicines for anxiety or seizures. Inform your physician of all medicines you are currently taking as well as those you have started or stopped taking in recent times, such as prescription, over-the-counter and herbal products, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Keep this list current as it may not reflect all potential interactions.
