What is Sinequan?
This drug belongs to tricyclic antidepressants and may be prescribed to affect unbalanced chemicals in the brain. It is effective in treating symptoms of anxiety/depression due to alcoholism, mental or psychiatric problems.
Sinequan is usually prescribed to be taken 1-3 times a day. The dosage is determined by a healthcare provider, depending on the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
It is important to make sure that no allergenic reactions will be caused by Sinequan (Doxepin) before starting using it. The drug is unsafe for patients who have urinating difficulty or glaucoma. Your healthcare provider should find out if you have one or several of the following health conditions: sleep apnea, diabetes and bipolar disorder because it may be not safe for you to use this drug. It is unknown whether Sinequan is safe to be taken during pregnancy but it should not be used without consulting a healthcare provider. The drug has not been approved for children. Sinequan (Doxepin) may appear in breast milk and to prevent the occurrence of any negative consequences, the use of it during the breastfeeding period should be avoided.
The drug may interact with 1,070 medications, 266 of which may cause major interactions that lead to harmful effects. Some medications may affect the effectiveness of Doxepin, Cimetidine, Terbinafine, Quinidine, antidepressants and others. The use of such medications as Amiodarone, Sotalol, Cisapride, Pimozide, Quinidine and others may change the heart rhythm.
Sinequan (Doxepin), as any other medication, may cause various side effects, ranging from minor to severe, and it is important to learn which ones before using this drug. Various minor side effects may appear, for instance, diarrhea, enlargement of the breasts, heartburn, gas in the stomach, swelling of the testicles, hair and/or weight loss and others. It is always preferable to notify a doctor about any side effects that you have.
Recommendations for Use
Since a range of side effects may occur, the treatment is recommended to be started with a lower dose which can be gradually increased later. The dosage is carefully measured and mixed with 1/2 of water, milk or different juices like tomato, orange, grapefruit, pineapple and other. Even if you feel improvements, continue taking this medication.
Up to three weeks may be needed before starting experiencing positive effects of this drug.
Precautions and Contraindications
Do not stop taking it suddenly to avoid headache, tiredness, sudden mood changes and other unpleasant symptoms.
Generally, your doctor should consider all the history of your health condition, especially if you have had liver, breathing, urinating, bleeding problems, overactive thyroid, heart attack, abnormal mental conditions, seizures and others.
Drug Interactions
The use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors should be avoided, including Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Procarbazine, Linezolid, Selegiline and others.
Side Effects
In case there are severe side effects such as stomach pain, bleeding gums, chest pain, cold sweats, dark urine, convulsions, blurred vision, chills, depression, difficulty with breathing, dizziness, faintness, dry mouth, irregular heartbeat, hearing loss, irritability, loss of appetite, mood changes, nervousness, difficult urination, rapid weight gain, restlessness, seizures, stupor and others, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider and describe what is happening to you.