What is Sinequan?

Sinequan (doxepin) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with depression. Sinequan is used to treat depression and anxiety. Sinequan may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important Information

You should not use Sinequan if you are allergic to doxepin, or if you have untreated or uncontrolled glaucoma. Do not use Sinequan within 14 days before or 14 days after you have used an MAO inhibitor, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine. Some young people have thoughts about suicide when first taking an antidepressant. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Sinequan will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Sinequan if you are allergic to doxepin, or if: you have untreated or uncontrolled glaucoma; you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox), methylene blue injection, phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days; or you are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox), methylene blue injection, phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or an SSRI antidepressant within the past 5 weeks. To make sure Sinequan is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: liver disease; kidney disease; a history of seizures; a history of heart disease or congestive heart failure; a history of drug abuse or alcoholism; a thyroid disorder; glaucoma; urination problems; a history of urinary retention; a personal or family history of Long QT syndrome; or if you take potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Sinequan will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

How should I take this medicine?

Take Sinequan exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Sinequan can be taken with or without food. To treat depression or anxiety: For adults, the starting dose is usually 75 mg daily. Children may start with a lower dose and increase the amount gradually as your body adjusts to the medicine. To treat insomnia: For adults, the starting dose is usually 10 mg before going to bed. Children may start with a lower dose and increase the amount gradually as your body adjusts to the medicine. Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Call your doctor if your depression symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while you are using Sinequan.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of Sinequan can be fatal.

What should I avoid while taking Sinequan?

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of Sinequan. Do not use Sinequan within 14 days before or 14 days after you have used an MAO inhibitor, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Sinequan can decrease sweating and you may be more prone to heat stroke. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Sinequan and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products while taking Sinequan.

Sinequan side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash or hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have: blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights; bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness; fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeats; fever, hot flashes, sweating; increased pressure in your head; nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); seizure (convulsions); easy bruising or bleeding; or a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out. Common Sinequan side effects may include: drowsiness, tired feeling; dizziness, headache, spinning sensation; blurred vision; nausea, upset stomach, vomiting; constipation; weight gain; dry mouth; or sweating. This