What’s Doxepin, and Why Was It Discontinued?
Doxepin is a medicine used to help people with big sad feelings, lots of worries, really itchy skin, or trouble sleeping. But guess what? They don’t make it anymore! Let’s find out why.
When Did They Stop Making It?
Doxepin started to disappear from medicine shelves around October 2006. Some places ran out even before that. So, it became kind of hard to find.
What Can You Use Instead?
Since Doxepin was not super popular, and no generic versions were available, doctors had to find other similar medicines. They might suggest medicines with names like Clomipramine, Dosulepin, or Amitriptyline to help with the same problems.
Is Doxepin Completely Gone?
Well, not exactly. In the UK, they still have some Doxepin in 25 mg and 50 mg sizes as of early 2022. So, if you’re there, you might still find it.
What Are the Side Effects of Doxepin?
If you’re between 18 and 60 years old, not taking any other meds, and don’t have other health issues, you might get things like a stuffy nose, feeling sick, being super sleepy, tummy troubles, a dry mouth, or fuzzy vision. Rarely, you could have low or high blood pressure, a fast heartbeat, skin rashes, or become more sensitive to the sun.
What About Young Adults?
Some younger folks might have weird thoughts or do strange stuff, like with other medicines for feeling down.
Are There More Side Effects?
Yep, there can be more like swelling, gaining weight, skin rashes again, seizures, a racing heart, getting all flushed, high blood pressure, or feeling dizzy when you stand up. If you stop taking it all of a sudden, you might feel yucky with nausea, headaches, trouble sleeping, and just being super tired. But don’t worry, that doesn’t mean you’re addicted. If you need to stop, do it slowly with your doctor’s help.
Who Should Be Careful?
Some people, like those with two-sided mood problems, eye trouble, a full bladder, babies growing in their tummies, or nursing moms, should be extra careful. Also, Doxepin can mix up with other medicines, so it’s important to tell your doctor about all the stuff you’re taking.
What’s the Deal with Doxepin, Really?
Doxepin is for folks who feel really down, super nervous, itch like crazy, or can’t sleep. It can make you sleepy and might make you gain weight, but it won’t make you feel all happy and needing more and more of it.
What’s the Smart Way to Use Doxepin?
Some people think they can just take any medicine they want, but that’s not a good idea. Doxepin is for people who really need it and have a doctor’s note. They usually start with 75 mg, but it can go up to 150 mg if the doctor says so.
What About Pregnant People and New Moms?
If a doctor says it’s okay, you can use Doxepin when you’re having a baby, but don’t stop without asking. Not treating feeling down can be a big problem. But if you’re feeding a little one with your milk, it’s better not to use Doxepin.
So, remember, it’s always best to listen to your doctor and not take medicines on your own. They know what’s best for you!