Doxepin
Atopic Dermatitis, Anxiety Disorders ... show more
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DRUG STATUS
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
Tricyclic Antidepressant
Doxepin
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Doxepin is used to treat depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It can also be used for chronic hives without a known cause.
Doxepin works by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain such as norepinephrine and serotonin. These substances help maintain mental balance, improving mood and sleep quality.
For depression and anxiety, the usual daily dose for adults ranges from 75 mg to 150 mg. In severe cases, doses up to 300 mg per day may be necessary. For insomnia, the recommended dose is 6 mg once daily, taken within 30 minutes of bedtime. Doxepin is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Common side effects of Doxepin include drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation. Serious adverse effects can include suicidal thoughts, especially in young people, and severe allergic reactions.
Doxepin carries a risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young people. It may cause drowsiness and dizziness. It is not recommended for individuals with untreated narrow-angle glaucoma or severe urinary retention. Patients should avoid alcohol and be cautious with other CNS depressants.
Indications and Purpose
What is Doxepin used for?
Doxepin is indicated for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It is effective in improving mood and sleep quality by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain. Doxepin is also sometimes used to treat chronic hives without a known cause, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
How does Doxepin work?
Doxepin works by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, which help maintain mental balance. It belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants and is effective in treating depression, anxiety, and insomnia by improving mood and sleep quality.
Is Doxepin effective?
Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant that has been shown to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to improve mood and sleep quality by increasing certain natural substances in the brain that help maintain mental balance. Its effectiveness in treating these conditions is well-documented in medical literature.
How does one know if Doxepin is working?
The benefit of Doxepin is evaluated through regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider. They will assess the improvement in symptoms of depression, anxiety, or insomnia and monitor for any side effects. Adjustments to the dosage may be made based on the patient's response and any adverse effects experienced.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Doxepin?
For adults, the usual daily dose of Doxepin for depression and anxiety ranges from 75 mg to 150 mg, which can be adjusted based on individual response. In more severe cases, doses up to 300 mg per day may be necessary. For insomnia, the recommended dose is 6 mg once daily, taken within 30 minutes of bedtime. Doxepin is not recommended for children under 12 years of age, and its use in children and adolescents should be carefully considered due to the risk of suicidal thoughts.
How do I take Doxepin?
Doxepin can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body. For insomnia, it should be taken within 30 minutes of bedtime. Avoid mixing the liquid form with carbonated beverages, and consult your doctor about any specific dietary restrictions.
For how long do I take Doxepin?
The duration of Doxepin use varies depending on the condition being treated. For depression and anxiety, it may take several weeks to feel the full effect, and treatment can continue for several months or longer, as advised by a doctor. For insomnia, Doxepin is typically used for short-term treatment, and if sleep does not improve within 7-10 days, a doctor should be consulted.
How long does it take for Doxepin to start working?
Doxepin may take several weeks to show its full effect for depression and anxiety. For insomnia, improvements in sleep may be noticed within the first few days of treatment. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed and consult your doctor if you do not notice any improvement.
How should I store Doxepin?
Doxepin should be stored in its original container, tightly closed, and kept out of reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and protected from light. It is important not to store it in the bathroom to prevent exposure to humidity.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Doxepin?
Important warnings for Doxepin include the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young people, and the potential for drowsiness and dizziness. It is contraindicated in individuals with untreated narrow-angle glaucoma or severe urinary retention. Patients should avoid alcohol and be cautious with other CNS depressants. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.
Can I take Doxepin with other prescription drugs?
Significant drug interactions with Doxepin include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which can cause serious side effects if taken together. Cimetidine can increase Doxepin levels, leading to enhanced side effects. Alcohol and other CNS depressants can increase drowsiness. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking to avoid interactions.
Can I take Doxepin with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Doxepin be taken safely while pregnant?
Doxepin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There is limited data on its safety in pregnant women, and it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider. Monitoring for any adverse effects on the fetus is recommended.
Can Doxepin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Doxepin is not recommended during breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the infant, such as sedation and respiratory depression. If treatment with Doxepin is necessary, breastfeeding should be discontinued, and alternative feeding options should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Is Doxepin safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients should use Doxepin with caution, as they may be more sensitive to its effects, particularly drowsiness and confusion. A lower starting dose is recommended, and any dosage increases should be made cautiously. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is advised to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Doxepin?
Doxepin may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue, which can affect your ability to exercise safely. It is important to understand how Doxepin affects you personally before engaging in physical activities. If you feel excessively drowsy or dizzy, it may be best to avoid strenuous exercise until you have discussed these side effects with your doctor.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Doxepin?
Drinking alcohol while taking Doxepin can increase the sedative effects of the medication, leading to increased drowsiness and dizziness. This can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving. It is generally advised to avoid alcohol while taking Doxepin to prevent these enhanced side effects and ensure the medication's effectiveness.
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