Adapin
Generic Name:
Doxepin
Brand Names:
Adapin, Silenor, Zonalon
Adapin Description:
Adapin belongs to a group of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants and is used in the treatment of depression and anxiety. While the exact mechanism of Adapin is unknown, experts hypothesize that the medication alters levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter in the brain believed to play a key role in the development of depression and other mental illnesses.
Adapin is no longer available in the U.S., but can be purchased in generic versions.
Adapin Side Effects:
Common side effects of Adapin include:
- Nausea or indigestion
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty urinating or frequent urination
- Fatigue or weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Change in appetite or weight gain
For more information, see our Adapin side effects page.
Adapin Uses:
Adapin is used in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Patients with major depressive disorder experience prominent and persistent episodes of depression. Depressive episodes generally include a combination of at least four of the following symptoms:
- Change in appetite
- Change in sleeping habits
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation
- Reduced interest in regular activities
- Decreased libido
- Fatigue
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Sluggish thinking or reduced concentration
- Suicide attempts or ideation
Adapin is also used in the treatment of persistent and severe anxiety.
Adapin Interactions:
Adapin may interact with the following medications and substances:
- Alcohol
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO) inhibitors
- Antihistamines
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants
- Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Flecainide (Tambocor)
- Levodopa (Larodopa, Sinemet)
- Lithium
- High blood pressure medications
- Parkinson's disease medications
- Diabetes medications
- Asthma medications
- Decongestants or allergy medications
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
- Muscle relaxants
- Propafenone (Rythmol)
- Quinidine
- Sedatives or tranquilizers
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Thyroid medications
- Tolazamide
Adapin may interact with other medications or substances that are not listed above. Patients should talk with their doctor about the use of all other medications, vitamins or supplements before initiating use of Adapin.
Adapin Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Adapin dosages may vary among patients. Your doctor will determine the size and frequency of your dosage according to your individual needs. Patients should follow the dosage guidelines set by their doctor.
Adapin is usually taken one to three times a day. The medication may be taken with or without food. Patients should take the medication at approximately the same time every day.
It may take several weeks to feel the full effects of Adapin treatment. Patients should not abruptly discontinue use of the medication without first speaking with their doctor.
Missing a Dose of Adapin
If you forget to take a dose of Adapin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of the medication to compensate for a missed dose.
Adapin Overdose
An overdose of Adapin may result in serious complications and death. Symptoms of an overdose may include:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Central nervous system depression
- Coma
Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they have taken too much Adapin.
Adapin FDA Approval:
Doxepin, the active ingredient in Adapin, was initially approved for sale in the U.S. by the FDA in September of 1969.
Adapin Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Adapin, like other antidepressants, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in children, adolescents and young adults. Depression itself is commonly associated with an increased risk of suicide. Because of these risks, patients undergoing treatment with Adapin should be closely monitored for abnormal changes in behavior or suicidal tendencies.
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September 9, 2010, 3:38 pm
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September 8, 2010, 3:39 pm
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September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
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September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
