Doxepin: Uses, indications and precautions when using

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Doxepin is an antidepressant medication, used to treat a wide range of symptoms, including depression and mental/mood disorders. These drugs can help prevent suicidal thoughts and provide other important benefits.

1. Uses of the drug Doxepin

Some studies have shown that a small number of people (especially those under the age of 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience more severe depression, mental/mood symptoms other or suicidal ideation/intent. So it's very important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressants (especially for people under 25), even if the treatment isn't for your mental condition. spirit/mood.
The drug is very effective in treating mental/mood problems such as depression and anxiety. In addition, medications can help improve mood and feelings of well-being, reduce anxiety and stress, help you sleep better, and increase your energy levels. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as tricyclic antidepressants. Doxepin works by affecting the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

2. How to use Doxepin

Read the medication instructions provided by your pharmacist carefully before you start taking Doxepin. In case you have any questions about the medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
The drug is to be taken by mouth, in doses 1 to 3 times daily, or as directed by your doctor. If you only take it once a day, take it before bed to reduce daytime sleepiness. Dosage is varied depending on your medical condition and response to treatment.
To reduce the risk of side effects (such as drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness), your doctor may direct you to start taking the medicine at a low to high dose.
Use the dropper that came with the medicine to measure the prescribed amount. Just before taking, mix the medicine with half a glass (equivalent to 120ml) of water or milk, or the juice of orange, grapefruit, tomato, plum or pineapple and drink the whole mixture. Do not mix with soda or other carbonated beverages.
You should take the medicine regularly to achieve the best treatment effect. The best way to not miss a pill is to set a reminder on your phone every day. In case you take too much, this will not improve any faster and may even increase the risk of side effects.
When the symptoms show signs of improvement, you should continue to take the medicine. Do not stop taking the medicine without your doctor's consent. If you stop taking the medicine suddenly, it will affect your health. Symptoms such as mood swings, headaches, and fatigue can all occur. When detecting abnormal signs, immediately go to a medical facility to receive help.
The effect is most noticeable within a week. However, it may take up to 3 weeks before you feel the full effect. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (such as feelings of sadness getting worse or you have suicidal thoughts).

3. Drug side effects and precautions

During the use of the drug you may experience problems such as: drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation or difficulty urinating. If these problems persist or worsen, see your doctor for help.
To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when getting up from a sitting or lying position.
Suck on hard candy (sugar-free) or shaved ice, chew gum (sugar-free), drink water, or use a saliva substitute, all of which can help relieve dry mouth.
Side effects of medications can make you constipated. So eat enough fiber, drink enough water, and exercise. Laxatives are also recommended by many doctors. Ask your pharmacist which laxative is right for you
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: persistent heartburn, mental changes/ mood (such as anxiety, agitation, confusion), shaking, severe stomach/abdominal pain.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: severe dizziness, irregular heartbeat, fainting, seizure, eye pain, enlarged pupils, experience vision problems (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night).
Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching/redness (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing. However, these reactions are very rare.

So to avoid unwanted side effects before using the drug you need:
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are sensitive to the ingredients of the drug, or to tricyclic antidepressants other (such as nortriptyline) and other types of allergies. In the composition of the drug contains some inactive ingredients, which can affect your health. Thoroughly disclose your medical history, especially of: Bleeding problems, breathing problems, liver problems, recent heart attack, urination problems (such as glandular) enlarged prostate), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type), personal or family history of mental condition/mood (eg, bipolar disorder, psychosis), family history of suicide, seizures, conditions that may increase seizure risk (eg, other encephalopathy, alcohol/sedation withdrawal). Doxepin may cause a condition that affects the heart rate (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause severe fast or irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (which may include severe dizziness, fainting) that require immediate medical attention. QT prolongation may be increased while you have certain medical conditions or are taking other medicines that prolong the QT interval. Special attention should be paid to certain issues such as: heart failure, bradycardia, QT prolongation in ECG, family history of certain heart conditions. High blood levels of potassium or magnesium substances also increase the risk of QT prolongation. And it can be higher if you take certain medications (such as diuretics) or if you have conditions such as sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. In these cases, you should talk to your doctor further. This medicine may make you dizzy, drowsy, or blur your vision. For subjects who use alcohol and marijuana, this symptom will be more severe. Do not use the drug if you need to perform tasks that require high concentration. Limit alcoholic beverages. Before each surgery, tell your doctor about any medications you are taking (including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements). You may be more sensitive to the sun while using this medicine. Therefore, it is important to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. You should apply sunscreen and prepare adequate protective clothing before going outdoors. Once you get sunburned or have blisters/redness stop hesitating to get medical attention immediately.

For patients with diabetes, the side effects of this medicine may make it harder for you to control your blood sugar. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and let your doctor know the results. From there, your doctor can decide whether or not you need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, difficulty urinating, and QT prolongation (see above). During pregnancy, mothers should learn carefully before taking the drug. Babies born to mothers who have used this medicine during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely show signs of difficulty feeding, breathing, convulsions, muscle stiffness or fussiness. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, tell your doctor right away. This medicine can pass into the breast milk of the mother, which will affect the young baby. Breast-feeding while using this medicine is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

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Reference source: webmd.com