Jim asked
I take melatonin pretty regularly. It works for the most part every once in a while, I have trouble falling asleep. Can I take ZzzQuil with it?
Answer
Taking melatonin occasionally with ZzzQuil (diphenhydramine) is considered safe and there is no drug interaction between the two.
Taking Melatonin With ZzzQuil
Melatonin is a herbal supplement that is taken to help with jet lag, insomnia, shift-work disorder, circadian rhythm disorders in the blind and other sleep-wake cycle disturbances. ZzzQuil (diphenhydramine) is a first generation antihistamine used in the treatment of occasional insomnia due to its side effect of sedation or drowsiness. Diphenhydramine can also be used in the treatment of allergies, allergic reactions and motion sickness. Using both melatonin and ZzzQuil (diphenhydramine) could lead to an increased risk of sedation or drowsiness. Caution should be taken when driving or operating machinery while using both medications. More information on both medications can be found below.
Melatonin For Insomnia
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced mainly by the pineal gland in the brain and helps regulate the sleep and wake cycles. Secretion of melatonin occurs during night time hours and generally peaks between 2AM and 4AM. It is generally taken before bed. It is available commercially as a nutritional supplement and therefore is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The most common side effects reported have been dizziness, excessive daytime sleepiness, headache, nausea, insomnia and nightmares. Patients with auto-immune conditions should not take melatonin as studies are unclear whether this is safe and effective.
ZzzQuil For Insomnia
ZzzQuil (diphenhydramine), as stated above, is a first generation antihistamine that can be used in the treatment of insomnia, allergies, allergic reactions and motion sickness. Sedation or drowsiness is the most common side effect reported and the reason why this is effective in the treatment of temporary insomnia. Other common side effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, coordination problems and thickening of mucus in nose or throat. Caution should be taken when taking other medications that are know to cause drowsiness or sedation. Check with your pharmacist or other health care provider before taking medications known to cause drowsiness.
Summary
Taking melatonin and ZzzQuil (diphenhydramine) together occasionally is safe. There is a potential for an increase in the side effect of drowsiness or sedation and caution should be exercised until the effect of both medications is known.
