Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Doxepin as follows:
Gastrointestinal side-effects
- Doxepin use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking dose of doxepin with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication.
- Doxepin can also induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of dry mouth. Proper hydration measures and compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations can help with relief from constipation. If you experience any further bothersome constipation, report it to your physician for a recommendation on laxative/stool softener use. Observing compliance with fiber intake recommendations in the diet can also help with preventing episodes of constipation with the medication.
Serotonin syndrome
- Serotonin is one chemical in the brain, which in permissible amounts, is believed to reduce anxiety and promote happiness and well-being.
- Very excessive concentrations of serotonin in the brain can lead to serotonin syndrome. Individuals with serotonin syndrome can present with mania, excitement, hallucinations, agitation, insomnia, pounding heartbeat, very rapid heart rate, overactive reflexes, and diarrhea.
- Doxepin use, especially along with a few other antidepressants, such as, citalopram, fluoxetine, and sertraline, can significantly increase the serotonin levels in the body and lead to development of serotonin syndrome.
- Report symptoms of serotonin syndrome to your physician promptly for any appropriate measures to be considered.
Other constitutional side-effects
- Individuals taking doxepin can also present with sexual dysfunctions, such as, compromised interest in sex, difficulty attaining and maintaining erection, and/or difficulty having an orgasm.
