What is Spectra (Doxepin) used for?

Spectra (Doxepin) is an oral antidepressant used to treat patients who are suffering from depression. The medication is a tricyclic antidepressant that operates by balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce symptoms associated with these conditions such as feelings of guilt, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, or anxiety. Your doctor may also prescribe it for the treatment of other conditions that are not listed here.

How should I use Spectra (Doxepin)?

Spectra (Doxepin) should always be used according to your doctor`s instructions to get the safest and most effective results from treatment. The normal dosage is one tablet administered each day, but your particular instructions will depend on your age, weight, current health, and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed along with a full glass of water and may be taken with or without food, although a snack or meal is recommended before use if you get an upset stomach. Never split, chew, or crush the medication before use to avoid unintentionally destroying or altering the effects of its contents.

What are the side effects of Spectra (Doxepin)?

As with any medical treatment, the use of Spectra (Doxepin) may cause side effects in some patients such as:

• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Mild nausea or vomiting
• Upset stomach or constipation
• Unusual weight gain
• Blurry vision
• Unusual swelling of the breast area
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the ears)
• Impotence, decreased sex drive, or trouble having an orgasm

Serious side effects that may require emergency medical attention include tremors, faintness, sensitive skin, easier bruising, sore muscles, increased heart rate, hallucinations, painful urination, urinary retention, or seizures. Inform your doctor as soon as you experience any worrying or intense symptoms to make sure the correct alterations are made to your dosage or application frequency to prevent more health problems from occurring.

Please Note

Spectra (Doxepin) should not be used to treat patients who are under the age of twelve, breastfeeding, allergic to tricyclic antidepressants, who have manic episodes, glaucoma, urinary retention, severe liver disease, or those who have taken an MAOI medication within the last two weeks. Also inform your doctor if you have schizophrenia, porphyrias, irregular heartbeats, cardiovascular disease, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, an enlarged prostate, bipolar disorder, a history of epilepsy, decreased kidney function, or decreased liver function. These conditions may cause unexpected problems during treatment requiring special adjustments to your regimen.

Strictly use Spectra (Doxepin) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Spectra (Doxepin) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.