FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS
Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term studies. Closely monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are not approved for use in pediatric patients [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults.
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Screen for Bipolar Disorder Prior to Starting Doxepin Hydrochloride Capsules
Prior to initiating treatment with doxepin hydrochloride capsules, screen patients for a personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
2.2 Recommended Dosage
The recommended starting oral dosage for doxepin hydrochloride capsules is 25 mg three times daily or 75 mg once daily. The recommended target total oral dosage range for doxepin hydrochloride capsules is between 75 mg/day and 150 mg/day (may be given once daily or in divided doses). The maximum recommended oral dosage for doxepin hydrochloride capsules is 100 mg three times daily.
2.3 Switching Patients to or from a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor
Wait at least 14 days after discontinuation of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) before initiating therapy with doxepin hydrochloride capsules [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), and Drug Interactions (7)] .
Wait at least 14 days after discontinuation of doxepin hydrochloride capsules before initiating therapy with an MAOI [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), and Drug Interactions (7)].
2.4 Dosage Modifications Intended to Reduce the Risk of Anticholinergic Effects
If anticholinergic effects (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation) develop, reduce the doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] .
2.5 Dosage Modifications for Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors
Reduce the doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage based on doxepin plasma concentrations when used concomitantly with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors [see Drug Interactions (7)] .
2.6 Dosage Modifications in Known CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 Poor Metabolizers
Reduce the doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage based on doxepin plasma concentrations in patients who are known CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 poor metabolizers [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)] .
2.7 Discontinuation of Doxepin Hydrochloride Capsules Treatment
When discontinuing doxepin hydrochloride capsules, gradually reduce the dosage until discontinued [see Adverse Reactions (6)] .
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
Doxepin Hydrochloride Capsules, USP are available containing doxepin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg or 100 mg of doxepin.
- The 10 mg capsules are hard-shell, gelatin capsules with a buff opaque cap and buff opaque body axially printed with MYLANover 1049in black ink on both the cap and the body.
- The 25 mg capsules are hard-shell, gelatin capsules with an ivory opaque cap and white opaque body axially printed with MYLANover 3125in black ink on both the cap and the body.
- The 50 mg capsules are hard-shell, gelatin capsules with an ivory opaque cap and ivory opaque body axially printed with MYLANover 4250in black ink on both the cap and the body.
- The 75 mg capsules are hard-shell, gelatin capsules with a brite lite green opaque cap and brite lite green opaque body axially printed with MYLANover 5375in black ink on both the cap and the body.
- The 100 mg capsules are hard-shell, gelatin capsules with a brite lite green opaque cap and white opaque body axially printed with MYLANover 6410in black ink on both the cap and the body.
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are contraindicated in patients:
- With hypersensitivity to doxepin (hypersensitivity reactions have included tongue edema and urticaria). The possibility of cross sensitivity with other dibenzoxepines should be kept in mind.
- With glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
- With current or past urinary retention [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
- Taking MAOIs, or within 14 days of stopping MAOIs (including the MAOIs linezolid or intravenous methylene blue) because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)and Drug Interactions (7)].
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults
In pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs including tricyclic antidepressants and other antidepressant classes that included approximately 77,000 adult patients and 4,500 pediatric patients (doxepin hydrochloride capsules are not approved for use in pediatric patients), the incidence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in antidepressant-treated patients age 24 years and younger was greater than in placebo-treated patients. There was considerable variation in risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among drugs, but there was an increased risk identified in young patients for most drugs studied. The drug-placebo differences in the number of cases of suicidal thoughts and behaviors per 1,000 patients treated are provided in Table 1.
|
Age Range |
Drug-Placebo Difference in Number of Patients of Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors per 1,000 Patients Treated |
|
Increases Compared to Placebo |
|
|
< 18 years old |
14 additional patients |
|
18-24 years old |
5 additional patients |
|
Decreases Compared to Placebo |
|
|
25-64 years old |
1 fewer patient |
|
≥ 65 years old |
6 fewer patients |
It is unknown whether the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adults extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond four months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance trials in adults with MDD that antidepressants delay the recurrence of depression.
Monitor all doxepin hydrochloride capsules-treated patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of doxepin hydrochloride capsules therapy, and at times of dosage changes. Counsel family members or caregivers of patients to monitor for changes in behavior and to alert the health care provider. Consider changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing doxepin hydrochloride capsules, in patients who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
5.2 Serotonin Syndrome
Tricyclic antidepressants, including doxepin hydrochloride capsules, can precipitate serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. This risk is increased with concomitant use of other serotonergic drugs (e.g., other tricyclic antidepressants, SSRIs, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, triptans, tetracyclic antidepressants, opioids), lithium, tryptophan, buspirone, and St. John’s Wort) and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin (e.g., MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders and others, such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue) [see Drug Interactions (7)] .
Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., confusion, agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, and flushing), neuromuscular abnormalities (e.g., tremor, rigidity, clonus, and hyperreflexia), seizures and gastrointestinal signs and symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). Patients should be monitored for the emergence of serotonin syndrome.
The concomitant use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules with MAOIs is contraindicated. The use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules within 14 days of discontinuing treatment with an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders is contraindicated. Starting doxepin hydrochloride capsules in a patient who is being treated with an MAOI such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is contraindicated. No reports involved the administration of methylene blue by other routes (such as oral or local tissue injection). If it is necessary to initiate treatment with a MAOI such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue in a patient taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules, discontinue doxepin hydrochloride capsules before initiating treatment with the MAOI [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)and Drug Interactions (7)] .
Monitor all patients taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules for the emergence of serotonin syndrome. Discontinue doxepin hydrochloride capsules treatment and any concomitant serotonergic agents immediately if the above symptoms occur, and initiate supportive symptomatic treatment. If concomitant use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules with other serotonergic drugs (besides MAOIs which are contraindicated) is clinically warranted, inform patients of the increased risk for serotonin syndrome and monitor for symptoms.
5.3 Angle-Closure Glaucoma
The pupillary dilation that occurs following use of many antidepressant drugs including doxepin hydrochloride capsules may trigger an angle closure glaucoma attack in a patient with anatomically narrow angles who does not have a patent iridectomy. Patients may wish to be examined to determine whether they are susceptible to angle closure, and have a prophylactic procedure (e.g., iridectomy), if they are susceptible.
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are contraindicated in patients with glaucoma. Avoid use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles.
5.4 Sedation and Driving Risks
Because doxepin hydrochloride capsules can cause sedation, warn patients of the risk of sedation and caution patients against driving a car or operating dangerous machinery while taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules. Also caution patients that their response to alcohol may be potentiated.
Sedating drugs, including doxepin hydrochloride capsules, may cause oversedation in geriatric patients.
5.5 Activation of Mania or Hypomania
In patients with bipolar disorder, treating MDD with doxepin hydrochloride capsules may precipitate a mixed/manic episode. Prior to initiating treatment with doxepin hydrochloride capsules, screen patients for any personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania. doxepin hydrochloride capsules are not approved for use in treating bipolar depression.
5.6 Risk of Seizures
Caution should be used when doxepin hydrochloride capsules are given to patients with a history of seizure disorder, because this drug may lower the seizure threshold. Patients with a history of seizures should be monitored during doxepin hydrochloride capsules use to identify recurrence of seizures or increase in frequency of seizures.
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
- Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
- Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
- Sedation and Driving Risks [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
- Activation of Mania or Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
- Risk of Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
- Psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Adverse reactions (≥ 2% of doxepin-treated patients) in 1,635 doxepin-treated patients with MDD in clinical trials included somnolence (17%), dry mouth (15%), dizziness (6%), constipation (5%), fatigue (5%), blurred vision (3%), tachycardia (3%), hypotension (3%), insomnia (2%), tremor (2%), nausea (2%), hyperhidrosis (2%), and increased weight (2%).
Other Adverse Reactions Observed in Clinical Trials
Other adverse reactions that occurred at an incidence of < 2% in patients treated with doxepin in clinical trials were:
- Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: Tinnitus.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: Diarrhea, dyspepsia, vomiting.
- General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: Asthenia, edema, chills.
- Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: Decreased appetite.
- Nervous System Disorders: Ataxia, paresthesia, headache, extrapyramidal disorder.
- Psychiatric Disorders: Agitation, confusional state, libido decreased.
- Pulmonary Disorders: Asthma exacerbation.
- Renal and Urinary Disorders: Urinary retention.
- Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: Breast enlargement.
- Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Rash, pruritus.
- Vascular Disorders: Flushing.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of doxepin. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
- Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Agranulocytosis, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, eosinophilia, purpura.
- Cardiac Disorders: Conduction disorder, arrhythmia.
- Endocrine Disorders: Inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion.
- Eye Disorders: Angle-closure glaucoma, mydriasis.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: Aphthous stomatitis, abdominal pain upper.
- General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: Facial edema, hyperpyrexia.
- Hepatobiliary Disorders: Jaundice.
- Investigations: Blood glucose increased.
- Nervous System Disorders: Hypoesthesia, dysgeusia, convulsion, tardive dyskinesia, serotonin syndrome.
- Psychiatric Disorders: Hallucination, disorientation.
- Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: Testicular swelling, gynecomastia, galactorrhea.
- Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Photosensitivity reaction, tongue edema, alopecia, urticaria.
- Vascular Disorders: Hypertension.
Withdrawal syndrome occurred after stopping doxepin [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.3)].
The following adverse reaction has been reported with use with other tricyclic antidepressants: decreased blood glucose.
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
Table 2 describe the clinically significant drug interactions of doxepin hydrochloride capsules with other drugs or classes.
|
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are contraindicated in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. The use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules within 14 days of discontinuation of an MAOI or the use of MAOI within 14 days of discontinuation of doxepin hydrochloride capsules is contraindicated .Starting doxepin hydrochloride capsules in a patient who is being treated with an MAOI is contraindicated . |
|
Clinical Effect(s) |
Concomitant use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules and MAOIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome [ Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] . |
|
Other Serotonergic Drugs (Besides MAOIs) |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, particularly during treatment initiation and dosage increases. If serotonin syndrome occurs, consider discontinuation of doxepin hydrochloride capsules and/or concomitant serotonergic drugs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Concomitant use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules with other serotonergic drugs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. |
|
Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Monitor doxepin plasma concentrations and reduce the doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage or the strong CYP2D6 inhibitor as appropriate [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Concomitant use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase the exposures of doxepin [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] which may increase the risk of doxepin hydrochloride capsules related adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5)and Adverse Reactions (6)]. |
|
Examples |
See www.fda.gov/CYPandTransporterInteractingDrugs for examples of strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors. |
|
Carbamazepine |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Monitor doxepin plasma concentrations and consider increasing the doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage in patients taking carbamazepine. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Concomitant use of carbamazepine with doxepin hydrochloride capsules decreases the exposure of doxepin [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] which could lead to reduced treatment effect. |
|
Cimetidine |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Monitor doxepin plasma concentrations and consider reducing the doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage in patients taking cimetidine. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Concomitant use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules with cimetidine may increase the exposures of doxepin [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] which may increase the risk of doxepin hydrochloride capsules-related anticholinergic effects (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. |
|
Alcohol |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Avoid concomitant use with alcohol. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules may potentiate the sedative effects of alcohol [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] . |
|
CNS Depressants |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Dosage reduction of doxepin hydrochloride capsules and/or the CNS depressant may be needed based on clinical response and tolerability. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
When concomitantly administered with doxepin hydrochloride capsules, the sedative effects of CNS depressant may be potentiated [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] . |
|
Tolazamide |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Monitor glucose levels and reduce the doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage as appropriate. |
|
Clinical Effect(s) |
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules may cause severe hypoglycemia when concomitantly used with tolazamide. |
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Pregnancy Exposure Registry
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to antidepressants, including doxepin hydrochloride capsules, during pregnancy. Health care providers are encouraged to advise patients to register by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants 1-866-961-2388 or visiting online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-researchprograms/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants.
Risk Summary
Available data from published epidemiological studies and postmarketing reports have not established an increased risk for major birth defects or miscarriage with doxepin hydrochloride capsules use (see Data). There are risks (see Clinical Considerations) :
- To the mother associated with untreated depression in pregnancy.
- Poor neonate adaptation from exposure to tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), including doxepin hydrochloride capsules, during the third trimester of pregnancy .
Animal reproduction toxicity of doxepin has not been fully characterized.
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of major birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-associated Maternal and/or Embryofetal Risk
Women who discontinue antidepressants during pregnancy are more likely to experience a relapse of MDD than women who continue antidepressants. This finding is from a prospective longitudinal study of 201 pregnant women with a history of MDD who were euthymic and taking antidepressants at the beginning of pregnancy. Consider the risk of untreated MDD when considering discontinuation of doxepin drugs during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Neonates previously exposed to TCAs, including doxepin hydrochloride capsules, late in the third trimester during pregnancy have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding. Such complications can arise immediately upon delivery. Reported clinical findings have included respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnea, seizures, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, vomiting, hypoglycemia, hypotonia, hypertonia, hyperreflexia, tremor, jitteriness, irritability, and constant crying. These findings are consistent with either direct toxic effects of TCAs or possibly a drug discontinuation syndrome. Monitor neonates who were exposed to doxepin hydrochloride capsules in the third trimester of pregnancy for poor neonatal adaptation syndrome.
Data
Human Data
Published epidemiological studies of pregnant women exposed to TCAs, including doxepin hydrochloride capsules, have not established an association with major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal outcomes. Methodological limitations of these observational studies include small sample size and lack of adequate controls.
8.2 Lactation
Risk Summary
Data from published literature report the presence of doxepin and nordoxepin in human milk. There are reports of excessive sedation, respiratory depression, poor suckling and swallowing and hypotonia in breastfed infants exposed to doxepin at doses used to treat MDD. There are no data on the effects of doxepin on milk production.
Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, including excess sedation and respiratory depression in a breastfed infant, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during doxepin hydrochloride capsules treatment.
8.4 Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of doxepin hydrochloride capsules in pediatric patients have not been established.
Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] .
8.5 Geriatric Use
Clinical studies of doxepin did not include sufficient numbers of patients 65 years of age and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger adult patients.
Sedating drugs, including doxepin hydrochloride capsules, may cause confusion and oversedation in geriatric patients. The recommended starting doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage in geriatric patients is generally lower than those of younger adult patients .
8.6 Hepatic Impairment
The effect of hepatic impairment (HI) on the pharmacokinetics of doxepin has not been studied. Doxepin is primarily metabolized in the liver. Doxepin hydrochloride capsules-treated patients with HI may have a greater systemic doxepin exposure than those with normal liver function. Consider obtaining doxepin concentrations in patients with HI and modifying the dosage as appropriate.
8.7 Use in Genomic Subgroups
The recommended doxepin hydrochloride capsules dosage in CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 poor metabolizers is lower than the recommended dosage in CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 normal metabolizers [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
According to the literature, doxepin is primarily metabolized by CYP2D6 and/or CYP2C19; thus, the use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules in CYP2D6 and/or CYP2C19 poor metabolizers will likely result in higher doxepin exposures and an increased risk of doxepin hydrochloride capsule-associated adverse reactions.
9 DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE
9.1 Controlled Substance
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules contain doxepin, which is not a controlled substance.
9.3 Dependence
Physical dependence is a state that develops as a result of physiological adaptation in response to repeated drug use, manifested by withdrawal signs and symptoms after abrupt discontinuation or a significant dose reduction of a drug. Abrupt cessation of doxepin hydrochloride capsules after prolonged administration can result in withdrawal symptoms, which is indicative of physical dependence.
10 OVERDOSAGE
Signs, Symptoms, and Complications of Doxepin Hydrochloride Capsules Overdose
Serious manifestations of tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) overdose include cardiac dysrhythmias, severe hypotension, convulsions, and CNS depression, including coma. Deaths may occur from overdosage with TCAs, including doxepin hydrochloride capsules. Changes in the electrocardiogram, particularly in QRS axis or width, are clinically significant indicators of TCA toxicity. A maximal limb-lead QRS duration of ≥ 0.1 seconds may be the best indication of the TCA overdose severity.
Signs and symptoms of TCA toxicity develop rapidly after TCA overdose. Other signs of TCA overdose may include confusion, disturbed concentration, transient visual hallucinations, dilated pupils, agitation, hyperactive reflexes, stupor, drowsiness, muscle rigidity, vomiting, hypothermia, or hyperpyrexia. There are reports of patients succumbing to fatal dysrhythmia late after TCA overdose.
Management of Overdose
The following are recommendations for the management of a doxepin hydrochloride capsules overdose. Contact the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdose management recommendations.
With a doxepin hydrochloride capsules overdose, obtain an ECG and immediately initiate cardiac monitoring in the hospital. A minimum of six hours of observation with cardiac monitoring and observation for signs of CNS depression, respiratory depression, hypotension, cardiac dysrhythmias, conduction blocks, and seizures is recommended. If signs of toxicity occur during this period, extended monitoring is recommended.
Monitoring of plasma doxepin levels should not guide doxepin hydrochloride capsules overdose management.
Cardiovascular Toxicity Management:Intravenous sodium bicarbonate should be administered to maintain the serum pH in the range of 7.45 to 7.55. If the pH response is inadequate to intravenous sodium bicarbonate therapy, hyperventilation may also be used. With concomitant use of hyperventilation and sodium bicarbonate therapy frequently monitor pH and pCO2. A pH > 7.6 or a pCO2 < 20 mm Hg is undesirable. Dysrhythmias unresponsive to intravenous sodium bicarbonate therapy/hyperventilation may respond to lidocaine therapy. Type 1A and 1C antiarrhythmics are generally contraindicated (e.g., quinidine, disopyramide, and procainamide) in the setting of TCA overdose. Hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, exchange transfusions, and forced diuresis generally have been reported as ineffective in TCA overdose due to high tissue and protein binding of doxepin.
CNS Toxicity Management:In patients with TCA overdose who have CNS depression, early intubation is recommended because of the potential for abrupt deterioration. Seizures should be controlled with benzodiazepines, or if these are ineffective, other anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital, propofol). Avoid use of physostigmine to treat TCA overdose.
11 DESCRIPTION
Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant.
The molecular formula of doxepin hydrochloride is C 19H 21NO • HCl with a molecular weight of 315.84. It is a white crystalline powder freely soluble in water, in ethanol (96%), and methylene chloride. Doxepin is a dibenzoxepin derivative. Specifically, it is an isomeric mixture of: 1-Propanamine, 3-dibenz[ b, e]oxepin-11(6 H)ylidene- N, N-dimethyl-, hydrochloride. The structural formula of doxepin is shown below.
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are for oral administration.
Active ingredients for the capsules include: 10 mg, 25, mg, 50 mg, 75 mg and 100 mg of doxepin (equivalent to 11.4 mg, 28.5 mg, 57 mg, 85.5 mg and 114 mg of doxepin hydrochloride, respectively).
Capsule inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch (corn) and sodium lauryl sulfate. The empty gelatin capsule shells contain D&C Yellow No. 10, gelatin, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide. In addition, the 10 mg, 25 mg and 50 mg empty gelatin capsule shells contain FD&C Yellow No. 6 and the 75 mg and 100 mg empty gelatin capsule shells contain FD&C Green No. 3.
The imprinting ink contains black iron oxide, D&C Yellow No. 10 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 1 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 2 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake, propylene glycol and shellac glaze.
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of the doxepin hydrochloride capsules in the treatment of MDD in adult patients is not well understood.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
The exposure-response relationship and time course of pharmacodynamic response for the safety and effectiveness of doxepin have not been fully characterized.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
In healthy volunteers, a single oral doxepin hydrochloride capsule dose of 75 mg resulted in peak plasma doxepin concentrations that ranged from 8.8 ng/mL to 45.8 ng/mL (mean 26.1 ng/mL). Peak levels were reached between 2 and 4 hours (mean 2.9 hours) after doxepin hydrochloride capsules administration. Peak levels for the primary active metabolite N-desmethyldoxepin (nordoxepin) ranged from 4.8 ng/mL to 14.5 ng/mL (mean 9.7 ng/mL) and were achieved between 2 and 10 hours after doxepin hydrochloride capsules administration.
Distribution
The mean apparent volume of distribution for doxepin was approximately 20 L/kg. The protein binding for doxepin was approximately 76%.
Elimination
In healthy volunteers, the plasma elimination half-life of doxepin ranged from 8 to 24 hours (mean 17 hours). The half-life of nordoxepin ranged from 33 to 80 hours (mean 51 hours). The mean plasma clearance for doxepin was approximately 0.84 L/hour/kg.
Specific Populations
Patients with Hepatic Impairment
Specific clinical studies have not been performed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of doxepin in patients with hepatic impairment. Patients with hepatic impairment may have a greater systemic doxepin exposure than those with normal liver function [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
Drug Interaction Studies
Carbamazepine
After concomitant use of doxepin and carbamazepine, the combined exposure of doxepin and nordoxepin (12 hours after the last dose) was decreased by 55% compared to that after the use of doxepin alone [see Drug Interactions (7)].
Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors
CYP2D6 contributes to the metabolism of doxepin and concomitant use of doxepin with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase doxepin exposure [see Drug Interactions (7)].
Cimetidine
Cimetidine is a non-specific inhibitor of CYP1A2, 2C19, 2D6, and 3A4. When cimetidine 300 mg twice daily was administered concomitantly with a single 6 mg dose of another oral doxepin product, there was approximately a 2-fold increase in doxepin C maxand AUC compared to doxepin without cimetidine [see Drug Interactions (7)] .
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Impairment of Fertility
Doxepin had no effect on female fertility in rats at oral doses up to 25 mg/kg/day (1.6x the human dose of 150 mg/day on a mg/m 2basis for a 60 kg human).
Insemination and conception were reduced in untreated female rats mated with male rats administered doxepin at 25 mg/kg/day for a period of ≥ 7 months.
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
How Supplied
Doxepin Hydrochloride Capsules, USP are available containing doxepin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 10 mg of doxepin.
The 10 mg capsules are hard-shell, gelatin capsules with a buff opaque cap and buff opaque body axially printed with MYLANover 1049in black ink on both the cap and the body. They are available as follows:
NDC 72789-072-30
bottles of 30 capsules
Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]
Protect from light.
Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP using a child-resistant closure.
PHARMACIST:Dispense a Medication Guide with each prescription.
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
Advise patients to read FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors
Advise patients and caregivers to look for the emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially early during doxepin hydrochloride capsules treatment and when the dosage is increased or decreased, and instruct them to report suicidal thinking and behavior to their health care provider
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
Serotonin Syndrome
Caution patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome particularly with the concomitant use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules and other serotonergic drugs (e.g., other TCAs, SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans, opioids), lithium, tryptophan, buspirone, and St. John’s Wort and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin (in particular, MAOIs, both those intended to treat psychiatric disorders and also others, such as linezolid)
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.2),
Drug Interactions (7)].
Instruct patients to contact their health care provider or report to the emergency room if they experience signs or symptoms of serotonin syndrome.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Advise patients that taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules can cause pupillary dilation, which in susceptible individuals, can trigger angle closure glaucoma. Patients may wish to be examined to determine whether they are susceptible to angle closure, and have a prophylactic procedure (e.g., iridectomy), if they are susceptible
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
.
Effects on Driving and Operating Heavy Machinery
Inform patients that doxepin hydrochloride capsules can cause sedation and caution them against driving a car or operating dangerous machinery while taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
.
Activation of Mania or Hypomania
Advise patients to observe for signs of mania/hypomania activation and instruct them to report such symptoms to the healthcare provider.
Drug Interactions
Inform patients that the use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules and certain other drugs increases the risk of doxepin hydrochloride capsule-associated adverse reactions or alternatively lower doxepin hydrochloride capsules effectiveness. Instruct patients to inform their healthcare provider about all the drugs that they are taking before taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules.
Alcohol Use
Advise patients to avoid the use of alcohol while taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules
[see
Drug Interactions (7)].
Pregnancy
Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to doxepin hydrochloride capsules during pregnancy. Advise women to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during doxepin hydrochloride capsules treatment.
Advise pregnant women that doxepin hydrochloride capsules use late in pregnancy may increase the risk for neonatal complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, or tube feeding [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Lactation
Advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during doxepin hydrochloride capsules treatment
[see
Use in Specific Populations (8.2)]
.
Medication Guide
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Doxepin Hydrochloride Capsules, USP (dox' e pin hye" droe klor' ide) for oral use |
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What is the most important information I should know about doxepin hydrochloride capsules? Doxepin hydrochloride capsules can cause serious side effects, including: Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and actions.Doxepin hydrochloride capsules and other antidepressant medicines may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in people 24 years of age and younger, especially within the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed. Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are not for use in children.
How can I watch for and try to prevent suicidal thoughts and actions in myself or a family member?
Call your health care provider or get emergency help right away if you or a family member have any of the following symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you: |
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See “What are the possible side effects of doxepin hydrochloride capsules?”for more information about side effects. |
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What are doxepin hydrochloride capsules? Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are a prescription medicine used to treat adults with a certain type of depression called major depressive disorder (MDD).
It is not known if doxepin hydrochloride capsules are safe and effective for use in children. |
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Do not take doxepin hydrochloride capsules if you:
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Before taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules, tell your health care provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take,including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Doxepin hydrochloride capsules and other medicines may affect each other causing possible serious side effects. Doxepin hydrochloride capsules may affect the way other medicines work and other medicines may affect the way doxepin hydrochloride capsules work.
Especially tell your health care provider if you take:
Ask your health care provider if you are not sure if you are taking any of these medicines. Your health care provider can tell you if it is safe to take doxepin hydrochloride capsules with your other medicines.
Do not start or stop any other medicines during treatment with doxepin hydrochloride capsules without first talking to your healthcare provider.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show to your healthcare providers when you start to take a new medicine. |
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How should I take doxepin hydrochloride capsules?
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What should I avoid while taking doxepin hydrochloride capsules?
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What are the possible side effects of doxepin hydrochloride capsules? Doxepin hydrochloride capsules can cause serious side effects, including:
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The most common side effects of doxepin hydrochloride capsules include: |
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These are not all the possible side effects of doxepin hydrochloride capsules. Call your health care provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA1088. |
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How should I store doxepin hydrochloride capsules?
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General Information about the safe and effective use of doxepin hydrochloride capsules. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not take doxepin hydrochloride capsules for a condition for which they were not prescribed. Do not give doxepin hydrochloride capsules to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. They may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about doxepin hydrochloride capsules that is written for health professionals. |
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What are the ingredients in doxepin hydrochloride capsules? Active Ingredient:doxepin hydrochloride Inactive Ingredients for Doxepin Hydrochloride Capsules:colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch (corn) and sodium lauryl sulfate. The empty gelatin capsule shells contain D&C Yellow No. 10, gelatin, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide. In addition, the 10 mg, 25 mg and 50 mg empty gelatin capsule shells contain FD&C Yellow No. 6 and the 75 mg and 100 mg empty gelatin capsule shells contain FD&C Green No. 3.
The imprinting ink contains black iron oxide, D&C Yellow No. 10 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 1 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 2 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake, propylene glycol and shellac glaze.
For more information, contact Mylan at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX). |
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This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration .
Manufactured for:
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A.
Revised: 10/2025
VPL:DXPN:RX
