Doxepin helps relieve itch that may occur with certain skin problems such as atopic dermatitis or also known as eczema (patches of itchy red skin), and lichen simplex chronicus (thickening of the skin caused by repeated scratching, rubbing or itching).
Apply Doxepin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not apply more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.
To use the cream, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry the affected area before application.
- Apply the medicine gently on the affected area until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the tube.
Avoid contact with your eyes. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have a problem with your eyes.
Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.
You may stop applying this medicine when you no longer feel itchy.
Apply 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 use more than what is instructed by the doctor to make up for the missed dose.
If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- narrow-angle glaucoma (increased pressure in the eyes)
- urinary retention (difficulty passing urine)
as Doxepin may not be suitable for you.
Do not use Doxepin if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine that is used to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine within 14 days of stopping the MAOI.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- mood disorder e.g. mania (feeling highly excited, being over-active and easily irritated or distracted)
- heart disease e.g. irregular or abnormal heartbeat
- severe liver disease
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child or elderly. Children and elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not apply this medicine over large areas of the body.
Some genetic traits can affect an individual’s response to this medicine. A certain enzyme called CYP2D6 is involved in the breakdown of Doxepin in the body. Individuals who are known as poor metabolisers of CYP2D6 may experience enhanced side effects of this medicine (e.g. dry mouth, drowsiness). If you know you have this gene type, inform your doctor.
For as long as you are using this medicine, you may need to check for signs and symptoms of local skin reactions or excessive drowsiness.
Doxepin may cause drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, dizziness, blurred vision, dry eyes, dry mouth, taste changes, tiredness, skin irritation, and burning or stinging sensation on the application site.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes
- fast or irregular heartbeat
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 use Doxepin if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine within 14 days of stopping the MAOI.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines to treat depression e.g. fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine
- cimetidine (gastric medicine)
- tolazamide (medicine for diabetes)
- St. John’s wort (herbal medicine)
This list does not include all medicines that interact with Doxepin.
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 away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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