Silenor

Before taking this medicine

Do not take Silenor if you are allergic to doxepin hydrochloride, any inactive ingredient or other dibenzoxepines; if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the past two weeks; or if you have untreated narrow-angle glaucoma or severe urinary retention. Silenor is generally not recommended for people with severe sleep apnea. Tell your prescriber if you have liver impairment, difficulty passing urine or depression. Older adults require monitoring. Depression or suicidal thoughts may worsen during treatment. New changes in thinking or behavior, hallucinations or activities such as driving while not fully awake require immediate medical evaluation. If insomnia continues after 7 to 10 days of use, it should be reassessed. Do not drink alcohol while taking Silenor. Other medicines that slow brain activity, including sedating antihistamines, may increase its effects. Silenor can impair alertness and coordination; do not drive, operate heavy machinery or undertake other hazardous activities after taking it. Use during the third trimester of pregnancy may increase the risk of breathing problems, unstable body temperature, feeding difficulties, reduced muscle tone, tremor or irritability in the newborn. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment. Safety and effectiveness in children have not been evaluated.