Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Sleep Aid.
Bladder or urinary problems: Diphenhydramine can worsen symptoms of bladder problems. If you have a history of bladder problems, discuss with your doctor how Sleep Aid may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Sleep Aid, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Avoid driving or operating machinery until you have determined that you do not become drowsy during the day or experience impaired mental or physical abilities while taking Sleep Aid. Alcohol, sedatives, and pain medications can increase the side effects (e.g., drowsiness, inability to concentrate) of Sleep Aid. Do not undertake any activities that require alertness until you know how Sleep Aid affects you.
High blood pressure: If you have high blood pressure, discuss with your doctor how Sleep Aid may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Sleep Aid, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Lung problems: Sleep Aid can make breathing problems worse. If you have lung problems such as asthma or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) (COPD), discuss with your doctor how Sleep Aid may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Sleep Aid, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Medical conditions: For some people, insomnia is caused by other medical conditions. If you have trouble sleeping for longer than 2 weeks, contact your doctor before taking Sleep Aid.
Thyroid disease: People with thyroid disease should discuss with their doctor how Sleep Aid may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Sleep Aid, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Pregnancy: Sleep Aid should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Sleep Aid may pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking diphenhydramine, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: Diphenhydramine is not recommended for use as a sleep aid for children less than 12 years of age.
Seniors: Seniors may experience more side effects with Sleep Aid. Talk to your doctor before taking Sleep Aid.