Doxepin 5% Topical

Indications

Doxepin 5% Topical is used for: Pruritus, Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives), Atopic dermatitis, lichen simplex chronicus

Adult Dose

Adult: apply thinly 3-4 times daily; usual max. 3 g per application; usual total max. 12 g daily; coverage should be less than 10% of body surface area. Use in Elderly Patients: Dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range.

Child Dose

Child over 12 years: apply thinly 3-4 times daily; usual max. 3 g per application; usual total max. 12 g daily; coverage should be less than 10% of body surface area. The use of Doxepin cream in pediatric patients is not recommended.

Renal Dose

Administration

Contra Indications

Patients with untreated narrow angle glaucoma or a tendency to urinary retention because doxepin HCl has an anticholinergic effect Individuals who have shown previous sensitivity to any of its components

Precautions

Cautions should be exercised if there is susceptibility to angle-closure glaucoma, urinary retention, severe liver impairment, mania and also in pregnancy and breast-feeding. Drowsiness may affect performance of skilled tasks (e.g. driving) so patient should be careful. Lactation: may pass into breast milk; do not nurse

Pregnancy-Lactation

Pregnancy Category: B Lactation: May pass into breast milk; do not nurse

Interactions

Methylphenidate may increase plasma doxepin levels. Potentially Fatal: Potentiates hypertensive action of sympathomimetics. Increased anticholinergic effects with MAOIs. Additive CNS effects with anticholinergics, CNS depressants and alcohol.

Adverse Effects

Side effects of Doxepin 5% Topical : >10% Burning/stinging (23%), Drowsiness (20%; esp if applied to >10% BSA) 1-10% Dizziness, Dry mouth, Eczema exacerbated, Edema, Fatigue, Mental changes, Pruritus, Taste perversion

Mechanism of Action

Potent histamine H1- & H2-receptor antagonist activity.