Medications · FAQ
What should I do if I miss a doxepin dose or want to stop?
Short answer
If you miss your bedtime doxepin dose, skip it if you cannot allow seven to eight hours for sleep. Never double up. Talk with your physician before stopping or switching treatment, especially if you take a higher dose for depression. Instructions depend on your dose and reason for use.
For doxepin prescribed at bedtime for insomnia, a late dose may leave you sleepy when you need to be awake. If you cannot stay in bed for seven to eight hours, skip the missed dose and return to your prescribed schedule. Do not take a morning dose to make up for it.
Never take two doses together or add an extra dose after waking during the night. If you are unsure whether you already took it, ask a pharmacist for advice rather than taking another dose just in case.
If you want to stop, discuss the plan with your physician. Low-dose insomnia treatment has different stopping considerations from higher-dose antidepressant treatment. Higher doses may need a gradual reduction. Your physician can also review what to do if insomnia returns.
Do not overlap doxepin with a new sleep medicine unless instructed. If you take too much, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. Call 911 for seizures, trouble breathing, or inability to wake.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.