About doxepin
Doxepin is considered a tricyclic antidepressant. It works on the central nervous system to increase the levels of certain chemicals in the brain.
Doxepin is used to treat insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Doxepin is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including Silenor.
Doxepin may be prescribed as a tablet or capsule. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed doxepin, be sure to complete the full course of the tricyclic antidepressant unless your healthcare professional specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the antidepressant may not fully treat your insomnia.
Doxepin uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for doxepin, but healthcare professionals may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your doctor may prescribe doxepin for the following or other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Insomnia
Doxepin is FDA-approved to treat insomnia in people with trouble sleeping or staying asleep.
Depression and anxiety
Sinequan and other generic brands of doxepin are FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety. Silenor tablets are not prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses.
Doxepin side effects
The side effects associated with taking doxepin are typically mild. Most doxepin side effects are associated with drowsiness.
Doxepin has some common side effects. They may include:
Drowsiness and tiredness
Nausea
Cold symptoms, such as sore throat and runny nose
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Unusual thoughts or behavior
Rapid weight gain
Worsening depression or suicidal thoughts
Tell your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of doxepin therapy is not recommended in children under age 18.
How to take doxepin
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your doxepin prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Doxepin can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The typical starting dose ranges from 3 mg to 6 mg once daily.
Take doxepin within 30 minutes before bedtime. Avoid taking doxepin within three hours after eating. It may take 7–10 days before your insomnia symptoms improve.
What to avoid while taking doxepin
Doxepin has 660 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
Possible drug interactions with doxepin include:
Other medications that cause drowsiness, such as opioid pain medications, muscle relaxants, and sleeping pills
Other tricyclic antidepressants or anxiety medication
Anticholinergic drugs, such as belladonna alkaloids
Tolinase (tolazamide)
Tagamet (cimetidine)
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking doxepin. If you drink alcohol, you may experience an increased risk of adverse effects such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, vomiting, and lightheadedness.
Medication alternatives to doxepin
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest other tricyclic antidepressants or insomnia medications in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Insomnia
Doxepin prescription FAQs
How much does doxepin cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, doxepin costs around $17 for thirty 10 mg capsules without insurance. Doxepin is a generic medication, and brand names may cost more.
How can I refill my doxepin prescription?
To refill your doxepin prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
How long does it take for doxepin to kick in?
Doxepin starts working approximately 30 minutes after taking your dose.
What medications should not be taken with doxepin?
You should avoid taking certain drugs with doxepin, such as:
Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and antidepressant drugs
Anticholinergic drugs, such as belladonna alkaloids
Other medications with sedative effects, such as opioid pain medications, muscle relaxants, and sleeping pills
Why can't you take doxepin with a meal?
If you take doxepin with a meal, the medication may not work as well, or it may make you tired the next day.
Who should not take doxepin?
Avoid taking doxepin if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Untreated narrow-angle glaucoma
Urinary retention or trouble urinating
Kidney or liver disease
What happens if I miss a dose of doxepin?
If you miss a dose of doxepin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
Avoid taking doxepin if you don't have time for a full night's sleep before being active again.What happens if I take too much doxepin?
If you've taken too much doxepin, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center. An overdose of doxepin can be fatal.
3 simple steps to request your doxepin prescription today
Step 1
Book a doxepin prescription request appointment.
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Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your doxepin prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your doxepin prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Doxepin prescription pricing details
How pricing works
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Doxepin prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
American Family Physician. Doxepin (Silenor) for Insomnia. Accessed on October 15, 2022. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2011/0815/p453.html
Food and Drug Administration. Silenor prescription label. Accessed on October 15, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/022036s006lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Doxepin (Oral Route). Accessed on October 15, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/doxepin-oral-route/before-using/drg-20072083
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.