Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor to benefit your condition as much as possible. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

This medicine comes with a Medication Guide. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

If you are using the Sinequan® oral liquid or capsule once a day, you may take it at bedtime.

To use the Sinequan® oral liquid:

  • Measure the dose with the calibrated dropper that comes with the medicine.
  • Mix each dose with about one-half glass (4 ounces) of water, whole or skimmed milk, orange juice, grapefruit juice, tomato juice, prune juice, or pineapple juice. Do not mix this medicine with grape juice or carbonated beverages (soda pop). Mix the medicine just before taking the dose. Do not prepare it ahead of time.

To use the Silenor® tablet:

  • Do not take this medicine within 3 hours of a meal. It may not work as well, or it might make you sleepy the next day if you take it with or right after a meal.
  • Take the tablet 30 minutes before going to bed, when you are ready to go to sleep.
  • Do not take the medicine unless you can get a full night's sleep (7 to 8 hours). If you wake up too soon, you may feel drowsy from the medicine.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage forms (capsules or solution):
    • For depression or anxiety:
      • Adults and children 12 years of age and older—At first, 75 milligrams (mg) once a day or in divided doses during the day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 150 mg per day.
      • Children younger than 12 years of age—Use is not recommended.
  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • For insomnia:
      • Adults—6 milligrams (mg) once a day.
      • Older adults—At first, 3 mg once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

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Portions of this document last updated: April 01, 2024

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