Doxepin Interactions, Brand Names, Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings & Mechanism Of Action

Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant medication used to treat anxiety and depression. In some cases, it can also be used to treat various sleep disorders. Doxepin is available as a tablet, capsule, and oral solution. In the following 3-minute article, we discuss the brand name, uses, dosage, side effects, warnings, and interactions of doxepin.

Doxepin Interactions

Medications which have been found to interact with doxepin include arbutamine, anticholinergic medications, and thyroid supplements.

Do not take MAO inhibitors in conjunction with doxepin. Doing so may cause a serious drug interaction. Most MAO inhibitors should not be taken two weeks before or after taking doxepin. Consult with your doctor if you currently take an MAO inhibitor and are thinking about taking doxepin.

Doxepin Brand Name

Doxepin is sold under the brand name drugs Sinequan, Quitaxon, and Aponal. It is also available as a generic drug.

Doxepin Vs Xanax

Doxepin is often confused with the common medication Xanax. Doxepin may be used to treat symptoms of depression such as fear and anxiety. Both doxepin and Xanax are often prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorder. However, the side effects of Xanax are much more severe than those of doxepin.

Doxepin Uses

Doxepin is available as a capsule and tablet. In these forms, it is used to treat anxiety and depression. Doxepin oral solution can be used to treat insomnia in people who have trouble falling asleep.

Doxepin Dosage

The recommended dosage for loperamide can vary based on a variety of factors including:

Your age
Your weight
Your condition
Your response to your first dose

Doxepin Dosage For Depression And Anxiety

Initial Dose: 75mg once a day or in divided doses. Dosage should not exceed 150mg per day.

Doxepin Dosage For Insomnia

Initial Dose: 6mg once a day for adults. For older adults, 3mg once a day is recommended.

Doxepin Mechanism Of Action

As a tricyclic antidepressant, doxepin works by increasing the concentration of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This action prolongs the availability of serotonin and other chemicals, improving mood in the process.

Side Effects Of Doxepin

Doxepin does have some associated side effects. Some of these side effects are more serious and less common than others.

Mild Side Effects

Common side effects of doxepin include the following:

Nausea
Vomiting
Weakness
Mouth sores
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Flushing
Changes in weight
Diarrhea
Indigestion
Constipation
Chills
Difficulty urinating
Hair loss
Headache
Increased breast size

If these side effects are mild, they may disappear within a few days. If you have stopped taking your medication and the effects are still present, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious Side Effects

If you are experiencing any of the following serious side effects of doxepin, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Call 911 if you think your symptoms are life threatening.

Fast heartbeat
Yellowing of skin
Yellowing of eyes
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Skin rash
Intense itching
Swelling

Disclaimer: Here at Manifest Pharmacy, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.

Doxepin Warnings

Before taking doxepin, tell your doctor if you have any allergies, or are allergic to any other tricyclic depressants.

Doxepin may contribute to a heart condition known as QT prolongation and may result in serious heart conditions including heart attack and stroke. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of heart attack or stroke, such as irregular heartbeat, fainting, or severe dizziness.