What are the effects of combining Unisom with alcohol?

Combining Unisom, an over-the-counter sleep aid that often contains the antihistamine diphenhydramine, with alcohol can be dangerous. This combination has a multiplicative sedative effect on the central nervous system, which can lead to intensified drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment in motor coordination and cognitive functions. The risks increase significantly and can include difficulty breathing, heightened risk of overdose, and potentially life-threatening situations. Moreover, the blend can worsen the side effects of both substances and can impair judgment and reaction time, making activities such as driving extremely dangerous. It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol consumption when taking sleep aids like Unisom to prevent these adverse effects.