Diphenhydramine without a prior RX

How to take this medication -Take this medication as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor's approval. Stopping this drug suddenly may cause you to experience unwanted side effects.

Side Effects -Headache, nausea, dizziness, constipation, loss of appetite, dry mouth or drowsiness may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute.

Report promptly: trouble moving or walking breathing problems hallucinations confusion severe muscle stiffness trouble sleeping leg and foot swelling

Unlikely but report promptly: new pains (including chest pain or pressure) fainting unusually slow or fast heartbeat restlessness vision problems fever

If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions -Tell your doctor if you have: heart disease, hallucinations, mental confusion, difficulty walking, allergies, kidney disease or low blood pressure.

To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Use caution when performing tasks requiring mental alertness such as driving or using machinery.

Limit alcohol use because it may intensify the drowsiness and dizziness effects of this drug. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. It is not known if this medication is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions -Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: metoclopramide, medication for psychosis/anxiety/depression, other drugs used for Parkinson's, cimetidine, sleep medication, certain muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, narcotic pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose -If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, unusual dizziness or fainting, tingling or uncontrolled movement of the arms and legs, rapid or irregular pulse, agitation, hallucinations, and seizures.

Notes -It may take a few weeks for full effects of this medication to be noticed. Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose -If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.