Nytol

Nytol is a brand of sleeping pill produced by GlaxoSmithKline. The active ingredient is Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride.

It is an over the counter brand that induces drowsiness and encourages the onset of sleep.

It is for the short-term use of those who are having difficulty sleeping, or for 'fixing' the disorientating effects of jet lag. There are varying strengths in the form of the self-explanatory 'One a night' and 'Two a night', the former having more of the active ingredient per pill than the latter. The maximum dose is the same, using two of the lower dose pills or one of the higher. There is also a herbal brand.

It is potentially dangerous to take Nytol with alcohol, or to take more than the recommended dosage, and those on other medication or pregnant women need to seek medical advice before using Nytol. As with any other sleeping pill, one should never drive after taking a dosage. Long term usage is also discouraged as tolerance to the effect occurs over a couple of weeks. Diphenhydramine is not addictive. Nytol should never be given to children under the age of 16.

Taking more than the recommended amount is dangerous and medical help should be sought in the event of a suspected overdose of this medication.