Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

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 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, confusion, 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. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially the drowsiness and confusion effects. 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, St John's wort. 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.