Silenor (Doxepin) Addiction And Abuse

What Is Silenor (Doxepin)?

Silenor — also referred to as the generic name doxepin — is an oral medication used for the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders. This medication belongs to the tricyclic family of antidepressants, which directly affects two specific chemicals in the brain. Doxepin increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Doxepin works to balance your brain’s neurotransmitters, which can boost your mood, give you added energy and even improve your overall mental health. Silenor can also help to treat cases of insomnia when taken as prescribed.

How Is Silenor (Doxepin) Used?

Silenor is an oral medication used to treat depression, anxiety and other mood disorders. This medication is intended to be taken between one and three times as directed by your physician. If your doctor instructs you to take Silenor only once a day, it is advised that you take your daily dosage at night to avoid excessive drowsiness while awake.

This antidepressant is not intended for individuals under the age of 12, and elderly patients are more likely to experience side effects on this medication. Elderly patients are more likely to be prescribed a lower dosage of doxepin if they suffer from any heart or kidney problems. Once starting this medication, it may take a few weeks to see any improvement in your symptoms. Do not suddenly stop taking Silenor, as this can worsen any existing depression or anxiety symptoms. Doxepin should always be taken as prescribed to avoid any unnecessary side effects.

Silenor (Doxepin) Addiction

Doxepin should only be taken under a doctor’s care. Never increase your dosage or continue taking Silenor without a physician’s approval, as this can lead to severe side effects or possibly an overdose. Although the addictive properties of this medication are minimal, misusing doxepin can lead to dangerous side effects such as severe heartburn, intense mood swings, intense stomach pain, severe dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat, wide pupils, eye pain or seizures. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these serious symptoms. A Silenor overdose can result in death, so it’s important to only take your medication as prescribed.

Doxepin addiction doesn’t have to control your life. Reach out for help if you or a loved one is developing a substance use issue. The first step to a sober life is speaking up.

The Importance Of Aftercare

If you are prescribed Silenor, you may experience some minor side effects while taking the medication. Side effects such as increased drowsiness, blurry vision, dry mouth, constipation or dizziness are common while taking doxepin. Do not drink alcohol while taking Silenor, as this combination may drastically increase the effects of alcohol.

Combining this medication with any other prescriptions — especially other antidepressants or muscle relaxers — is greatly discouraged, as dangerous side effects can occur. You shouldn’t start Silenor if you have taken any SSRIs in the past five weeks, such as Lexapro or Zoloft. Always inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking before starting doxepin.