Doxepin
Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that works by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain that are needed to maintain mental balance and by blocking histamine receptors, which helps with sleep and reduces itching.
Dosage by Body Weight
For depression or anxiety, the typical adult oral dose starts at 75 mg daily, which may be titrated up to 150 mg or 300 mg daily as directed by a healthcare provider. For insomnia, the typical dose is 3 mg to 6 mg once daily, taken within 30 minutes of bedtime. Dosage must be individualized.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric populations.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Doxepin is not indicated for infants or toddlers.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Doxepin is not indicated for young pediatric patients.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Doxepin is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric populations. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Doxepin is not indicated for infants or toddlers. |
| 8-10 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Doxepin is not indicated for young pediatric patients. |
| 11-15 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Safety and efficacy have not been established. |
| 16-20 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Doxepin is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety, insomnia (sleep maintenance), and topically for moderate to severe pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis.
Generic Name
Doxepin HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Doxepin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.