Sinequan

Generic name: Doxepine hydrochloride

What is Sinequan?

Sinequan is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety.

What is the most important information I should know about Sinequan?

Sinequan is not approved for use in children under 12.

Antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, and young adults when the medicine is first started. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts and actions. Some people may have a particularly high risk of having suicidal thoughts or actions. These include people who have (or have a family history of) bipolar disorder (also called manic-depressive illness) or suicidal thoughts or actions.

Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is very important when an antidepressant medicine is first started or when the dose is changed.

Call the doctor right away to report new or sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings. Signs to watch for include new or worsening depression, new or worsening anxiety, agitation, insomnia, hostility, panic attacks, restlessness, extreme hyperactivity, and suicidal thinking or behavior.

Keep all follow-up visits as scheduled, and call the doctor between visits as needed, especially if you have concerns about symptoms.

Who should not take Sinequan?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Sinequan or similar antidepressants, you should not take Sinequan. Make sure that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you have experienced.

Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take Sinequan if you have difficulty urinating or the eye condition known as glaucoma.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Sinequan?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Sinequan. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have glaucoma, or difficulty urinating.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The starting dose for mild to moderate illness is usually 75 milligrams (mg) per day. This dose can be increased or decreased by your doctor according to individual need. The total daily dose can be given once a day or divided into smaller doses. If you are taking Sinequan once a day, the recommended dose is 150 mg at bedtime.

The 150-mg capsule strength is intended for long-term therapy only and is not recommended as a starting dose.

For more severe illness, gradually increased doses of up to 300 mg may be required as determined by your doctor.

Elderly: Due to a greater risk of drowsiness and confusion, older people are usually started on a low dose.

How should I take Sinequan?

Take Sinequan exactly as prescribed. It may take several weeks for you to feel better.

What should I avoid while taking Sinequan?

Sinequan may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you.

Do not drink alcohol while taking Sinequan. Alcohol increases the danger of a Sinequan overdose.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Sinequan?

If Sinequan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Sinequan with the following: alcohol, antidepressants, carbamazepine, cimetidine, clonidine, flecainide, guanethidine, MAOIs, major tranquilizers, propafenone, quinidine, and tolazamide.

What are the possible side effects of Sinequan?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, itchy or scaly skin (pruritus), light sensitivity, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, nausea, rapid or irregular heartbeat, rash, trouble urinating, vomiting, water retention, weight changes

Can I receive Sinequan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Sinequan during pregnancy are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant. Sinequan may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Sinequan is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding your baby until your treatment is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Sinequan?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

How should I store Sinequan?

Store at room temperature.