DOXEPIN - TOPICAL CREAM (dox-EH-pin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Zonalon

USES:
Doxepin is used topically on the skin to relieve itching associated with certain skin conditions.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION:
This medication is for use on the skin only as directed. To use, clean and dry the affected area. Apply a small amount of cream to the skin area to create a thin film. Wash hands thoroughly after use. Do not use large amounts or use this more often than prescribed since the chance for side effects may be increased. This is usually used for not more than eight days. Avoid contact with the eyes.

SIDE EFFECTS:
This medication may cause temporary redness, tingling, scaling, dry skin or minor irritation when first applied. Drowsiness is also common especially if the medication is used in large amounts or applied frequently. Dry mouth, thirst and headache have also been reported. If these symptoms continue or become worse inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop:
swelling/itching/rash where the medication was applied, blurred vision, breathing trouble, rapid heart rate. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, allergies (especially drug allergies). Because this medication may cause drowsiness, use caution driving or participating in activities requiring alertness. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Because this medication is found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including:
cimetidine, narcotic pain medications (e.g., codeine), antidepressants (including SSRI’s such as fluoxetine, fluvoxamine), other skin products. Limit alcohol intake while using this drug. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES:
Use this only for the condition for which it was prescribed. If the condition does not improve or becomes worse after a few days, notify your doctor.

MISSED DOSE:
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up.

STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat. Check the expiration date on the tube and discard any expired medication.

Drugs & Medications

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.