Dox 10mg Tablet (Doxepin): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
- Irregular or fast heartbeat, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
- Severe dizziness or fainting when standing up.
- Confusion, hallucinations, or severe drowsiness.
- Seizures or convulsions.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
- Signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is doxicar 10mg tablet used for?
This medicine is a low-dose tricyclic antidepressant used mainly for insomnia and itching. It works by blocking histamine, which makes you sleepy and reduces itching. It is usually taken at bedtime.
- Generic Name: Doxepin (10mg)
- Manufacturer: Densa Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 doxicar 10mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा डॉक्सेपिन नामक तत्व से बनी है, जो मुख्य रूप से नींद न आने की समस्या और खुजली के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह दिमाग में हिस्टामिन नामक रसायन को रोककर नींद लाने और खुजली कम करने में मदद करती है। इसका 10 मिलीग्राम वाला डोज़ आमतौर पर रात को सोने से पहले लिया जाता है। यह दवा उन लोगों के लिए है जो रात में बार-बार जागते हैं या जिन्हें लगातार खुजली होती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना शुरू या बंद न करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुँह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि, कब्ज और चक्कर आना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कुछ लोगों को पेशाब करने में कठिनाई या पसीना आने की शिकायत हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको त्वचा पर चकत्ते, आँखों या त्वचा का पीलापन, या असामान्य रक्तस्राव दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे चबाएं या तोड़ें नहीं। इस दवा के साथ शराब बिल्कुल न पिएं क्योंकि इससे नींद और चक्कर बढ़ सकते हैं। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं, या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। इस दवा को अचानक बंद न करें, इससे बंद होने के लक्षण हो सकते हैं। इसे कमरे के तापमान पर, नमी और गर्मी से दूर रखें।
💊 doxicar 10mg tablet Uses & Benefits
- [{"condition":"Insomnia (sleep maintenance)","description":"This medicine is used at low doses to help people stay asleep through the night.
- It reduces the number of nighttime awakenings and improves sleep quality.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pruritus (itching) due to skin conditions","description":"The strong antihistamine effect of this medicine helps relieve itching associated with eczema, dermatitis, and other allergic skin conditions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Neurotic pruritus","description":"This medicine can reduce itching that is related to anxiety or emotional stress, partly through its sedative properties.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Depression (at higher doses)","description":"At doses above 25 mg, this medicine acts as a tricyclic antidepressant.
- However, the 10 mg strength is not intended for treating depression.","evidence":"Well-established for higher doses"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Chronic urticaria","description":"Sometimes used off-label to control hives that do not respond to standard antihistamines, due to its potent H1-blocking effect.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Anxiety with insomnia","description":"Occasionally prescribed off-label for short-term relief of anxiety that interferes with sleep, but it is not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Insomnia
Also treats: Pruritus, Depression (at higher doses)
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Doxepin (10mg) |
| Brand Name | doxicar 10mg tablet |
| Manufacturer | Densa Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | NEURO CNS |
| Action Class | Tricyclic antidepressants |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by blocking histamine H1 receptors in the brain and in peripheral tissues. At low doses, it strongly blocks these receptors, which reduces itching and causes sedation. It also has weaker effects on serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, but these are not significant at the 10 mg dose. The blocking of H1 receptors in the brain is responsible for the sleep-promoting effect. Additionally, this medicine has anticholinergic properties, which can cause dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take doxicar 10mg tablet
Strength: Tablet, 10 mg
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | For insomnia, the usual adult dose of this medicine is 3 mg to 6 mg taken at bedtime, but the 10 mg tablet may be prescribed as a starting dose. For itching, the dose may be 10 mg to 25 mg taken up to three times a day. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, confusion, and falls. Start with a low dose and increase gradually only if needed. Regular monitoring is recommended. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for kidney impairment. Use with caution and monitor for side effects. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Use with caution in liver impairment. Dose reduction may be necessary. Monitor liver function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | For insomnia, the maximum recommended dose is 6 mg per day. For itching, the maximum dose is 25 mg three times a day (75 mg per day). Higher doses should only be used under close medical supervision. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of doxicar 10mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| MAOIs | Major | |
| Fluoxetine | Major | |
| Paroxetine | Major | |
| Quinidine | Major | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Major | |
| Opioids | Major | |
| Benztropine | Moderate | |
| Diphenhydramine | Moderate | |
| Pseudoephedrine | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine)
- CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, fluvoxamine)
- Alcohol
- Other central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., benztropine, diphenhydramine)
- Sympathomimetic drugs (e.g., pseudoephedrine)
- Thyroid medications
- Cimetidine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the sedative and dizzying effects of this medicine, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It can also worsen dry mouth and constipation.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to doxepin or other tricyclic antidepressants","Untreated narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention","Enlarged prostate with difficulty urinating","Acute recovery phase after a heart attack","Use with MAOIs"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine may cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Do not stop this medicine suddenly, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms.","Use with caution in older adults, who are more sensitive to side effects.","Tell your doctor if you have a history of seizures, heart disease, or liver disease.","This medicine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in some people, especially young adults. Report any changes in mood to your doctor."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine passes into breast milk and may cause drowsiness in a nursing infant. It is not recommended during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor to discuss alternatives.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can be life-threatening. Symptoms include irregular heartbeat, severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and coma. If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, cardiac monitoring, and medications to control seizures and heart rhythm.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor tells you to. Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not stop this medicine suddenly, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and restlessness. Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can check how well the medicine is working and monitor for side effects. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults are more likely to experience side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and difficulty urinating. They are also at higher risk of falls. This medicine should be used with caution, starting at the lowest effective dose. Regular monitoring is recommended.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not well established. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks and may recommend alternative treatments.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. It may interact with anesthetic agents and other medications used during surgery. Your doctor may advise you to stop the medicine temporarily before surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Tell your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It can cause dry mouth, which may increase the risk of dental problems. It may also interact with medications used during dental procedures.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your coordination. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medicine affects you. Light to moderate exercise is generally safe, but listen to your body and avoid overexertion.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to work, drive, or operate machinery. It is best to take it at bedtime to minimize daytime sedation. If you still feel drowsy the next day, avoid driving and inform your doctor. Your doctor may adjust the dose or timing to reduce the impact on your daily activities.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your condition worsens, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will decide if and when to stop the medicine and will provide a tapering schedule to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance, meaning the dose may need to be increased to achieve the same effect. It can also cause dependence, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if stopped abruptly. Regular monitoring by your doctor is recommended to assess the continued need for the medicine and to check for side effects. Long-term use has been associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults and may affect liver function in rare cases.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
A structured program that helps you identify and change thoughts and behaviors that affect sleep.
Evidence: Well-establishedPractices and habits that promote consistent, uninterrupted sleep.
Evidence: Well-establishedMethods such as progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, and deep breathing to reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
Evidence: Moderate💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled to receive a live vaccine, inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store it at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about how to adjust your dosing schedule. Check local customs regulations for controlled substances before traveling internationally.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose. You may notice improved sleep within the first few nights.
A: This medicine is often prescribed for short-term use. Long-term use should be discussed with your doctor, as tolerance and dependence can occur.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
A: Older adults are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness and confusion. It should be used with caution and at the lowest effective dose.
A: No, you should not stop this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for doxicar 10mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
dox 10mg tabletD D Pharmaceuticals ₹14.06 11.8% CHEAPER
-
sidopin 10mg capsuleShine Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹27.84 74.7% COSTLIER
-
doxep 10mg capsuleNidus Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹33.00 107% COSTLIER
-
doxin 10mg capsuleIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹34.69 117.6% COSTLIER
-
oxepin 10 capsuleGalcare Pharmaceutical Pvt Ltd ₹39.38 147.1% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine is only for depression.
Fact: At low doses, this medicine is primarily used for insomnia and itching, not depression. - Myth: This medicine is not habit-forming.
Fact: This medicine is not considered addictive, but it can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. - Myth: You can stop this medicine anytime.
Fact: You should not stop this medicine suddenly. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Doxepin 10 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Dox 10mg tablet