Doxepin (By Mouth)

Doxepin (DOX-e-pin)

Treats depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants.

Brand Name(s):

Sinequan
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to doxepin or other tricyclic antidepressants (such as Elavil®, Sinequan®, or Tofranil®), maprotiline (Ludiomil®), or trazodone (Desyrel®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often.
• You may take this medicine with or without food.
• Measure the oral liquid with a marked dropper that comes with the medicine.
• The oral liquid must be mixed with one-half glass of water, milk, or fruit juice before you drink it. Do not use grape juice or carbonated beverages (soda pop). Mix the medicine just before taking the dose. Do not prepare ahead of time.

If a dose is missed:

• If you use more than one dose a day and you miss a dose, use the missed dose as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• If you use only one dose at bedtime, skip the missed dose. Wait until the next night. You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using Tagamet® or Antabuse®.
• Do not drink alcohol with this medicine.
• You should not use this medicine with other medicines that make you sleepy such as sleeping pills, cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, tranquilizers, or narcotic pain killers.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before using doxepin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, glaucoma, epilepsy, or stomach problems.
• If you are using this drug for depression, it may take 2 to 3 weeks before you start to feel better.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. You may need to use smaller and smaller doses before completely stopping this medicine. Check with your doctor.
• This medicine may make you drowsy, especially during the first few weeks you are using it. Be careful if driving a car or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe confusion
• Hallucinations
• Hives, or swelling of face, lips, or tongue
• Trouble going to the bathroom (urinating)
• Unexplained fever or sore throat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to sunlight

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.