Common brand name: Sinequan
Why is this drug prescribed?
Your physician has prescribed doxepin to help prevent your headaches. It is classified as
a tryciclic antidepressant. It has been shown to be effective in preventing both migraine and tension
type headaches. It works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and
norepinephrine within the brain.
How and when should doxepin be used?
The doses used to treat depression are much higher than those we use to prevent
headaches. This drug may have beneficial effects on mood, sleep, appetite, libido and memory, in
addition to controlling your headaches. This drug is taken at night to prevent daytime drowsiness.
This drug usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to become effective. Therefore, you should take it for at least
2 months to determine its effectiveness. Your dosage will be determined by your physician. Doxepin
should not be discontinued abruptly in patients receiving high doses over a long period of time.
What are the common side effects?
Side effects may subside with continued therapy. Common side effects include
constipation, dry mouth, sedation or weight gain. Constipation can be prevented by doing the
following:
- Drink 8 - 8 ounce glasses of water daily
- Eat stewed prunes or drink prune juice
- Increase fiber in diet (20 to 35 grams each day). High fiber foods
include beans, whole grains and bran cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables, such as asparagus, brussel
sprouts, cabbage and carrots
- Daily exercise
- Take a fiber laxative (Metamucil, Citrucel, Fiber-All, etc.)
When should I call my doctor?
If you experience blurred vision, rapid heart beat, dizziness upon standing or difficulty
urinating, call your doctor. Also, notify your doctor if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, have a
history of seizures or have taken a MAO inhibitor, such as Nardil, Parnate, or Marplan, within the
last 14 days.
WARNING:Do not use during pregnancy, unless directed by your doctor. Doxepin is excreted
in breast milk. This drug, as with all drugs, may interact with other medications and it is important
to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbals, dietary
supplements, and other prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications.
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
- Keep this drug in its original container, tightly closed.
- Store it at room temperature and away from heat, direct light, and moisture (do not store in
bathroom).
- Keep this and all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Never share your medication with anyone.
- Never take outdated medications. Some medication prescription labels list an expiration date.
If such a date is not on your medication label or if you are unsure how old a medication is, call
your pharmacy.
This handout summarizes information to help you understand and safely take your medication. Other
information--not included in this handout--may be important for you to know because of your unique
health status. Ask your doctor for more information and obtain complete prescribing information ("the
package insert") from your pharmacist for this medication.
This information is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care
provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
© Copyright 1995-2009 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All rights
reserved.
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This document was last reviewed on: 1/5/2006
