Frequently asked questions for Doxepin
Doxepin
Q. Can I stop taking Doxepin abruptly?
No, you should always check with your doctor before you stop taking Doxepin. Stopping the medicine abruptly may cause withdrawal effects. So, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually before taking you off the medicine completely. This helps to prevent a recurrence of the symptoms of depression and also reduces the chances of withdrawal symptoms.Q. Does Doxepin cause withdrawal symptoms?
Yes, stopping the use of Doxepin abruptly results in withdrawal symptoms which include insomnia (trouble falling asleep), irritability and excessive sweating. You should consult your doctor if you need to stop Doxepin. You doctor may gradually reduce the dose of Doxepin before taking you off Doxepin completely.Q. When must Doxepin not be taken?
You should not take Doxepin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to antidepressant medicines (such as Doxepin), or any of the inactive ingredients of Doxepin. Avoid taking Doxepin if you have glaucoma (increased eye pressure), liver problems, any difficulty in passing urine, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not take Doxepin if you are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in the last two weeks or, if you suffer from mania (where you experience an abnormally elevated and excitable mood). It should not be given to children under 12 years of age.Q. Can I drive while on Doxepin treatment?
Taking Doxepin may cause sleepiness, so you should avoid driving or working with machinery until the effect has worn off. Driving while taking Doxepin may increase the risk of sleep-driving. This refers to driving while not fully awake after taking a sleeping medicine that can lead to decreased awareness of the surroundings and cause accidents.Q. What are the overdose symptoms of Doxepin?
Overdose of Doxepin can be mild or severe. Signs and symptoms of mild overdose include drowsiness, blurred vision and excessive dryness of the mouth. Severe overdose may cause loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, convulsions, low blood pressure, unusually fast heartbeat or palpitations. If you take too much of Doxepin, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical help.Q. How long does it take for Doxepin to kick in?
It may take several weeks or longer for you to experience significant benefits of Doxepin. Do not stop taking Doxepin without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better.Q. Can Doxepin treat insomnia?
Yes. Doxepin is also used for the treatment of insomnia (difficulty sleeping). It is especially helpful for people who have trouble staying asleep.Q. Can I drink alcohol while on treatment with Doxepin?
No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Doxepin as alcohol can increase the sleepiness or dizziness that occur as side effects of Doxepin. Q. Is Doxepin addictive?
Generally Doxepin does not cause dependence and is therefore not addictive. But, you should not stop taking Doxepin abruptly as it may cause temporary withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia (trouble falling asleep), irritability and excessive sweating.Q. Can Doxepin cause suicidal thoughts?
Yes, Doxepin can cause suicidal thoughts. This is more common in people who have previously had thoughts about killing or harming themselves, are younger than 25 years of age with a history of psychiatric conditions and who have earlier been treated with an antidepressant. If you experience suicidal thoughts, contact your doctor or go to a hospital straight away. You may also find it helpful to talk to a relative or close friend.Q. Does Doxepin cause weight gain or loss of appetite?
Doxepin may cause weight gain as well as loss of appetite, but it is not very common. Call your doctor if any of these bother you.Q. What is the best time to take Doxepin?
Doxepin should be taken in the dose and duration advised by the doctor. Your dose will depend on the illness you are being treated for. If you are taking Doxepin for insomnia, you should take it 30 minutes just before bedtime and you should not do anything that needs mental focus. If you are taking it for depression or anxiety, take it exactly as directed by your doctor. Remember to take this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing doses.Q. What are the side effects of Doxepin?
The side effects of Doxepin include increased heart rate, weight gain, dryness in mouth, orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing), constipation and difficulty in urination. It may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, cause chills and excessive sweating. Please consult your doctor if any of these side effects worry you or do not go away.