Definition
Histamine H1 antagonist with pronounced sedative properties. It is used in allergies and as an antitussive, antiemetic, and hypnotic. Doxylamine has also been administered in veterinary applications and was formerly used in PARKINSONISM.
Doxylamine is a sedating antihistamine that can be used by itself as a short-term sleep aid, in combination with other drugs as a night-time cold and allergy relief. It is a member of the ethanolamine class of antihistamines and has anti-allergy power superior to almost every other antihistamine on the market, with the exception of diphenhydramine (Benadryl). It is also the most effective over-the-counter sedative available in North America, and more sedating than some prescription hypnotics. In a study, it was found that doxylamine succinate is possibly more effective than the barbiturate, phenobarbital for use as a sedative. For this reason, doxylamine has sometimes been used off label in a manner similar to diphenhydramine for the reduction of anxiety symptoms; Doxylamine succinate is used by itself as a short-term sleep aid, in combination with other drugs as a night-time cold and allergy relief drug, and a preparation is prescribed in combination with Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) to prevent morning sickness in pregnant women. In Commonwealth countries, doxylamine is available prepared with paracetamol/acetaminophen and codeine under the brand name Syndol or Mersyndol, as treatment for tension headache and other types of pain, or as a general OTC sleep-aid branded as Somnil, Donormyl, DSozile and Restavit containing Doxylamine Succinate only. [HMDB]
Description
Histamine H1 antagonist with pronounced sedative properties. It is used in allergies and as an antitussive, antiemetic, and hypnotic. Doxylamine has also been administered in veterinary applications and was formerly used in parkinsonism. [PubChem]
Top Gene Interactions
General Information
- Metabolism: Hepatic. Half Life: 10 hours
- Uses/Sources: Used alone as a short-term sleep aid, in combination with other drugs as a night-time cold and allergy relief drug. Also used in combination with Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) to prevent morning sickness in pregnant women.
- Symptoms: Signs of overdose include wheezing, tightness in the chest, fever, itching, bad cough, blue skin color, fits, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Route of Exposure: Readily absorbed via the gastrointestinal tract.
Mechanism of Action
Target Name | Mechanism of Action | References |
---|---|---|
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M1 Histamine H1 receptor Nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group I member 3 |
20869355 17139284 11752352 17016423 |
Doxylamine Interacts with Diseases
Disease | Inference Score | References/Inference Genes |
Metabolic Syndrome X | 5.64 |
|
Adenoma, Liver Cell | 5.59 |
|
Diabetes mellitus | 5.3 |
|
Precancerous Conditions | 5.04 |
|
Hepatomegaly | 5.0 |
|
Obesity | 4.98 |
|
Liver Neoplasms, Experimental | 4.85 |
|
Liver Neoplasms | 4.76 |
|
Drug-induced liver injury | 4.21 |
|