Dosulepin is used to treat depression.
Take Dosulepin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine can be taken with or without food. It is best to take it in the evening or right before bedtime.
Dosulepin must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed otherwise, as stopping it suddenly could worsen your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following:
- severe liver disease
- epilepsy (seizures or fits)
- history of heart attack
as Dosulepin may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Dosulepin if you are taking or have taken other mood medicines known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxacid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor if you have the following:
- kidney disease
- glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- thyroid problems
- heart disease
- mood disorders
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Inform your doctor if you have recently undergone electroshock therapy (also known as electroconvulsive therapy or ECT).
For as long as you are taking Dosulepin, you may need to have your eyes checked regularly. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
If you are going for an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.
What lifestyle changes should I make to cope with depression?
Regular exercise and eating a healthy diet will help increase energy and hormones in the body such as happy hormones that minimise mood swings. Get enough sleep, as lack of sleep may cause irritability, moodiness, sadness, and tiredness.
Dosulepin may cause drowsiness or dizziness. You may also experience some problems with your eyesight, such as blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
This medicine may also cause your blood pressure to fall suddenly when you get up from a sitting or lying down position and you may feel giddy. To minimise this problem, stand up slowly.
Other side effects may include any of the following: constipation, increased sweating, dry mouth, vomiting and changes in sexual drive.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- fits or seizures
- numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet
- confusion and hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent)
- breast enlargement or milk production in females
- breast development in males
- unusual bleeding or bruising and frequent and persistent sore throat with fever
- changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed, agitated, or having thoughts of self-harm)
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Dosulepin if you are taking or have taken other mood medicines known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxacid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for epilepsy (seizures or fits) e.g. phenobarbital
- medicines for sleep disorders e.g. amobarbital, thiopental
- medicines for heart diseases and high blood pressure e.g. clonidine, gaunethidine
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Dosulepin.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light, and away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.