It also covers how it works and whether it may help you sleep better.
How ZzzQuil Works
Diphenhydramine belongs to the group of medications calledantihistamines.
Antihistamines block the action of the chemical histamine, a signal within the central nervous system that promotes wakefulness.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
As a result, antihistamine medications can lead to drowsiness.
Diphenhydramine is only modestly effective in improving sleep, according to research.
Studies suggest that people fall asleep on average about eight minutes faster compared to placebo.
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The total amount of sleep improves by an average of about 12 minutes.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Diphenhydramine can also suppress a cough or nausea and may lead to uncontrolled movements calleddyskinesias.
These are more rare but may include:
Is ZzzQuil Addictive?
Given the limited effectiveness of this medication, it may be desirable to pursue other treatment options forinsomnia.
Summary
ZzzQuil is an over-the-counter sleep aid that contains diphenhydramine as the active ingredient.
It is used to treat insomnia, but studies show it is not a very effective sleep aid.
ZzzQuil can have side effects, including dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, low blood pressure, and more.
People with certain health conditions should use caution when taking ZzzQuil.
Food and Drug Administration.Diphenhydramine hydrochloride injection, USP label.
DailyMed.ZzzQuil nighttime sleep-aid- diphenhydramine hydrochloride liquid.
Erbe S, Bschor T.Diphenhydramin-Abhangigkeit und -Entzug [Diphenhydramine addiction and detoxification.
A systematic review and case report].Psychiatr Prax.
2013 Jul;40(5):248-51.
Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US).
