Side Effects of Doxylamine Succinate

Doxylamine succinate is an antihistamine contained in many different drugs and medications. It can be used to treat common allergy symptoms associated with hay fever or a cold. It can also be used as a sleep aid. All antihistamines work by blocking the body's production of histamine, which causes symptoms of an allergic reaction. Products containing doxylamine succinate are available in many forms, including capsules, tablets, chewable pills and a liquid suspension.

Drowsiness

• Doxylamine succinate and other antihistamines are known to cause drowsiness and dizziness, which is why it can sometimes be used as a sleep aid. When taking doxylamine succinate, be careful when performing tasks that require focus or concentration, such as driving, until you know how the medicine will affect you.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

• Constipation is a possible side effect of many medications, and doxylamine succinate is among them. Some people will also experience a mild upset stomach from taking products containing doxylamine succinate.

Headaches

• Some people taking doxylamine succinate will experience headaches as a side effect. In most cases the headaches will be mild and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Other Non-Serious Side Effects

• Other possible side effects of doxylamine succinate include a dry mouth, throat or nose, decreased coordination and blurred vision. In most cases, these side effects are not too bothersome to users.

Serious Side Effects

• In rare cases, doxylamine succinate can cause serious side effects that may indicate a problem that needs medical treatment. Contact your doctor if you experience difficulty urinating, mental changes or mood changes, ringing in the ears, easy bleeding or bruising, seizures and a fast or irregular heartbeat.