Doxepin Cream

What is this medication?

DOXEPIN (DOX e pin) reduces itching caused by skin conditions, such as eczema. It works by blocking histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Prudoxin, Zonalon

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Bipolar disorder
• Difficulty passing urine
• Glaucoma
• Heart disease
• If you frequently drink alcohol containing drinks
• Liver disease
• Lung or breathing disease, like asthma or sleep apnea
• Prostate trouble
• Schizophrenia
• Seizures
• An unusual or allergic reaction to doxepin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Follow the direction on the prescription label. Apply a thin film of cream to the affected area as often as directed. Do not cover the area with a bandage or dressing. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. There should be at least 3 to 4 hours in between each dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Alcohol
• Any medication that makes you drowsy or helps you sleep, such as antihistamines, tranquilizers, barbiturates, seizure medication, muscle relaxants and others
• Cimetidine
• Dextromethorphan (included in some cough medications)
• Linezolid
• Medications for correcting heart rhythm problems
• Medications for treating depression, especially MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
• Methylene blue

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team to check on your progress. Do not use this medication for more than 8 days.

You may get drowsy or dizzy, especially if you are applying this medication to large areas. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medication. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
• Sudden eye pain or change in vision such as blurry vision, seeing halos around lights, vision loss
• Trouble passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Change in taste
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Irritation at application site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 27 degrees C (80 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.