Can you take Amiodarone with Doxepin?
1 drug interaction and 62 additional warnings found for the following 2 drugs:
- amiodarone
- doxepin
Drug interactions
Major drug interactions
Major:
amiodarone doxepin
Applies to: amiodarone and doxepin
Using amiodarone together with doxepin can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening, although it is a relatively rare side effect.
You may be more susceptible if you have:
- a heart condition called congenital long QT syndrome
- other cardiac diseases
- conduction abnormalities
- electrolyte disturbances (for example, magnesium or potassium loss due to severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting)
Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may already be aware of the risks, but has determined that this is the best course of treatment for you and has taken appropriate precautions and is monitoring you closely for any potential complications.
You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations during treatment with these medications, whether together or alone.
It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.
Food/lifestyle interactions
Major food/lifestyle interactions
Major:
amiodarone Food/Lifestyle
Applies to: amiodarone
Amiodarone may be taken with or without food but should be taken at the same way each time.
You should avoid consuming grapefruits and grapefruit juice while taking amiodarone. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.
Grapefruit can raise the levels of amiodarone in your body and lead to dangerous side effects. This can affect the rhythm of your heart.
Call your doctor if you have symptoms of:
- irregular heartbeat
- chest tightness
- blurred vision
- nausea
Moderate food/lifestyle interactions
Moderate:
doxepin Alcohol (Ethanol)
Applies to: doxepin
Ask your doctor before using doxepin together with ethanol (alcohol), this can alter the effects of doxepin and cause increased side effects.
Call the doctor if you experience:
- uneven heartbeats
- extreme drowsiness
- confusion
- agitation
- vomiting
- blurred vision
- sweating
- muscle stiffness
- feeling light-headed
- seizures
You should be warned not to exceed recommended dosages, to avoid alcohol, and to avoid activities requiring mental alertness.
If your doctor prescribes these medications together, you may need a dose adjustment to safely take this combination.
It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.
Disease interactions
60 potential interactions Applies to: 40 conditions, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Underactive Thyroid, Heart Failure, and Heart Attack.
Alcoholism
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Alcoholism.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), can lower the seizure threshold and trigger seizures. These drugs should be used with extreme caution in patients with a history of seizures, or other predisposing factors, such as head trauma, CNS abnormalities, and alcoholism. Daily dose restrictions might apply for specific antidepressants. Physicians are encouraged to get additional dosing recommendations on the manufacturer's prescribing information.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Alcoholism.
Tricyclic antidepressants can enhance the response to alcohol. In patients who may use alcohol excessively, it should be borne in mind that the potentiation may increase the danger inherent in any suicide attempt or overdosage.
Arrhythmia
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Arrhythmia.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
Bipolar Disorder
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Bipolar Disorder.
A major depressive episode can be the initial presentation of bipolar disorder. Patients with depressive symptoms should be adequately screened to determine if they are at risk for bipolar disorder prior to initiating treatment with doxepin. This screening should include a detailed psychiatric history, including a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression. It should be noted that doxepin is not approved for use in treating bipolar depression.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Bipolar Disorder.
A major depressive episode can be the initial presentation of bipolar disorder. Patients with depressive symptoms should be adequately screened to determine if they are at risk for bipolar disorder prior to initiating treatment with a tricyclic antidepressant. This screening should include a detailed psychiatric history, including a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression. It should be noted that tricyclic antidepressants are not approved for use in treating bipolar depression.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Bipolar Disorder.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may aggravate symptoms of psychosis in schizophrenic patients, particularly those with paranoid symptomatology. Depressed patients, usually those with bipolar disorder, may experience a switch from depression to mania or hypomania. These occurrences have also been reported rarely with the tetracyclic antidepressant, maprotiline. Therapy with these agents should be administered cautiously in patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or a history of mania.
Bone Marrow Depression/Low Blood Counts
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Bone Marrow Depression/Low Blood Counts.
The use of tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) has rarely been associated with bone marrow suppression. Leukopenia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, anemia, eosinophilia, purpura, and pancytopenia have been reported with some TCAs. Patients with preexisting bone marrow suppression or blood dyscrasias receiving TCAs should be monitored closely during therapy for further decreases in blood counts.
Cardiogenic Shock
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Cardiogenic Shock.
The use of amiodarone is contraindicated for use in patients with cardiogenic shock, severe sinus node dysfunction causing marked sinus bradycardia, second- or third-degree AV block, or symptomatic bradycardia in the absence of a functioning pacemaker.
Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders.
Tricyclic antidepressants should be used with extreme caution in patients with evidence of cardiovascular disease because of the possibility of fluctuations in the blood pressure, arrhythmias, conduction defects, tachycardia, myocardial infarction and stroke. This also applies to patients who have family history of sudden death, cardiac dysrhythmias, or conduction disturbances. In some cases a gradual dose titration is recommended.
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
Central Nervous System Disorders
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Central Nervous System Disorders.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), can lower the seizure threshold and trigger seizures. These drugs should be used with extreme caution in patients with a history of seizures, or other predisposing factors, such as head trauma, CNS abnormalities, and alcoholism. Daily dose restrictions might apply for specific antidepressants. Physicians are encouraged to get additional dosing recommendations on the manufacturer's prescribing information.
Cerebrovascular Insufficiency
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Cerebrovascular Insufficiency.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
Dehydration
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Dehydration.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
Depression
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Depression.
A variety of abnormal thinking and behavior changes have been reported to occur in association with the use of most anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics. Some of these changes include decreased inhibition, aggressiveness, agitation, and hallucinations. These drugs can cause or exacerbate mental depression and cause suicidal behavior and ideation. Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of depression or other psychiatric disorders. Patients should be monitored for any changes in mood or behavior. It may be prudent to refrain from dispensing large quantities of medication to these patients.
Diabetes Mellitus
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.
There have been reports of both elevation and lowering of blood sugar levels in patients receiving tricyclic antidepressants. These drugs should be used with caution in patients with hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia or diabetes. Monitoring sugar levels is recommended.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.
Both elevation and lowering of blood sugar levels have been reported with the use of some tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Rarely, these effects have also occurred with maprotiline, a tetracyclic antidepressant. Patients with diabetes should be monitored for worsening control of blood glucose when treated with these agents, particularly during dosage escalation or whenever dosage has been altered.
Gastrointestinal Obstruction
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Obstruction.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Tertiary amines such as amitriptyline and trimipramine tend to exhibit greater anticholinergic effects than other agents in the class. Therapy with TCAs should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. In patients with angle-closure glaucoma, even average doses can precipitate an attack. Glaucoma should be treated and under control prior to initiation of therapy with TCAs, and intraocular pressure monitored during therapy.
Glaucoma, Narrow Angle
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Glaucoma, Narrow Angle.
Tricyclic antidepressants as other type of antidepressants have an effect on pupil size causing dilation. This effect can potentially narrow the eye angle resulting in increased intraocular pressure and angle closure glaucoma, especially in predisposed patients. These drugs should be used with caution in patients with anatomically narrow angle or history of glaucoma. Doxepin hydrochloride capsules are contraindicated in patients with glaucoma.
Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Tertiary amines such as amitriptyline and trimipramine tend to exhibit greater anticholinergic effects than other agents in the class. Therapy with TCAs should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. In patients with angle-closure glaucoma, even average doses can precipitate an attack. Glaucoma should be treated and under control prior to initiation of therapy with TCAs, and intraocular pressure monitored during therapy.
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension.
The use of doxepin is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, or a tendency to urinary retention. These disorders should be ruled out before starting treatment, especially in elderly patients.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension.
Some hypnotic drugs can have an anticholinergic effect and should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, and trouble urinating due to retention or enlarged prostate.
Heart Attack
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Heart Attack.
The use of most tricyclic antidepressants is contraindicated in patients that are going through the acute recovery period after a myocardial infarction.
Heart Block
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Heart Block.
The use of amiodarone is contraindicated for use in patients with cardiogenic shock, severe sinus node dysfunction causing marked sinus bradycardia, second- or third-degree AV block, or symptomatic bradycardia in the absence of a functioning pacemaker.
Heart Failure
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Heart Failure.
Antiarrhythmic agents can induce severe hypotension (particularly with IV administration) or induce or worsen congestive heart failure (CHF). Patients with primary cardiomyopathy or inadequately compensated CHF are at increased risk. Antiarrhythmic agents should be administered cautiously and dosage and/or frequency of administration modified in patients with hypotension or adequately compensated CHF. Alternative therapy should be considered unless these conditions are secondary to cardiac arrhythmia.
Hemodialysis
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Hemodialysis.
Amiodarone and its active metabolite are not removed by hemodialysis.
History - Cerebrovascular Disease
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with History - Cerebrovascular Disease.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
History - Myocardial Infarction
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with History - Myocardial Infarction.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
Hyperkalemia
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperkalemia.
Electrolyte imbalance can alter the therapeutic effectiveness of antiarrhythmic agents. Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia can reduce the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic agents. In some cases, these disorders can exaggerate the degree of QTc prolongation and increase the potential for torsade de pointes. Hyperkalemia can potentiate the toxic effects of antiarrhythmic agents. Electrolyte imbalance should be corrected prior to initiating antiarrhythmic therapy. Clinical monitoring of cardiac function and electrolyte concentrations is recommended.
Hyperthyroidism
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.
Amiodarone inhibits peripheral conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) and also contributes inorganic iodine that can result in altered thyroid function tests, hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism. Therapy with amiodarone should be administered cautiously in patients with thyroid dysfunction. Clinical monitoring, including baseline and periodic evaluation of thyroid function is recommended. Modification of thyroid therapy may be necessary.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.
Most tricyclic antidepressants should be administered with caution in hyperthyroid patients or those receiving thyroid medication as they may develop arrhythmias when these drugs are given.
Hypoglycemia
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Hypoglycemia.
There have been reports of both elevation and lowering of blood sugar levels in patients receiving tricyclic antidepressants. These drugs should be used with caution in patients with hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia or diabetes. Monitoring sugar levels is recommended.
Hypokalemia
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Hypokalemia.
Electrolyte imbalance can alter the therapeutic effectiveness of antiarrhythmic agents. Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia can reduce the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic agents. In some cases, these disorders can exaggerate the degree of QTc prolongation and increase the potential for torsade de pointes. Hyperkalemia can potentiate the toxic effects of antiarrhythmic agents. Electrolyte imbalance should be corrected prior to initiating antiarrhythmic therapy. Clinical monitoring of cardiac function and electrolyte concentrations is recommended.
Hypotension
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Hypotension.
Antiarrhythmic agents can induce severe hypotension (particularly with IV administration) or induce or worsen congestive heart failure (CHF). Patients with primary cardiomyopathy or inadequately compensated CHF are at increased risk. Antiarrhythmic agents should be administered cautiously and dosage and/or frequency of administration modified in patients with hypotension or adequately compensated CHF. Alternative therapy should be considered unless these conditions are secondary to cardiac arrhythmia.
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Hypotension.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may cause orthostatic hypotension, reflex tachycardia, syncope, and dizziness, particularly during initiation of therapy or rapid escalation of dosage. Imipramine appears to have the greatest propensity to induce these effects, while secondary amines such as nortriptyline may do so less frequently. Tolerance to the hypotensive effects often develops after a few doses to a few weeks. Rarely, collapse and sudden death have occurred secondary to severe hypotension. Other reported adverse cardiovascular effects include tachycardia, arrhythmias, heart block, hypertension, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, strokes, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities such as PR and QT interval prolongation. Therapy with TCAs should be avoided during the acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction, and should be administered only with extreme caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or a predisposition to hypotension. Close monitoring of cardiovascular status, including ECG changes, is recommended at all dosages. Many of the newer antidepressants, including bupropion and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are considerably less or minimally cardiotoxic and may be appropriate alternatives.
Liver Disease
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.
There have been rare reports of fatal hepatocellular necrosis after treatment with amiodarone. In patients with life-threatening arrhythmias, the potential risk of hepatic injury should be weighed against the potential benefit of amiodarone therapy. Patients with hepatic impairment should be monitored for evidence of progressive hepatic injury. Consideration should be given to reducing the rate of administration or withdrawing treatment if needed.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.
In general, tricyclic antidepressants should be used with caution in patients with liver or renal disease, as these drugs are metabolized and excreted through the liver and kidneys. Dose selection, especially in the elderly patients that might have liver or renal dysfunction, should usually be limited to the smallest effective total daily dose. Some tricyclic antidepressants such as clomipramine and nortriptyline have occasionally been associated with elevations in SGOT (AST) and SGPT (ALT), and other hepatic adverse events such as jaundice. Although serious liver injury has only been reported rarely, therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting liver disease and periodic monitoring of liver enzyme levels is recommended.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.
Some anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics are extensively metabolized by the liver, and excreted in the urine. Patients with impaired renal and/or hepatic function may be at greater risk for adverse effects, including central nervous system and respiratory depression, due to drug and metabolite accumulation. Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in such patients, with careful dose selection usually starting at the low end of the dosing range.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.
In general, anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics are extensively metabolized by the liver. Their plasma clearance may be decreased and their half-life prolonged in patients with impaired hepatic function. Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with liver disease (some are not recommended in severe liver impairment), and the dosage should be adjusted accordingly. Laboratory testing is recommended prior and during treatment.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are known to undergo metabolism in the liver. Some of the metabolites, such as those of imipramine, clomipramine and desipramine, may be pharmacologically active. Many of the metabolites are also excreted by the kidney. There are very limited data concerning the use of TCAs in patients with renal and/or liver disease. Therapy with TCAs should be administered cautiously in patients with significantly impaired renal or hepatic function. Dosage adjustments may be necessary.
Magnesium Imbalance
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Magnesium Imbalance.
Electrolyte imbalance can alter the therapeutic effectiveness of antiarrhythmic agents. Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia can reduce the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic agents. In some cases, these disorders can exaggerate the degree of QTc prolongation and increase the potential for torsade de pointes. Hyperkalemia can potentiate the toxic effects of antiarrhythmic agents. Electrolyte imbalance should be corrected prior to initiating antiarrhythmic therapy. Clinical monitoring of cardiac function and electrolyte concentrations is recommended.
Mania
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Mania.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may aggravate symptoms of psychosis in schizophrenic patients, particularly those with paranoid symptomatology. Depressed patients, usually those with bipolar disorder, may experience a switch from depression to mania or hypomania. These occurrences have also been reported rarely with the tetracyclic antidepressant, maprotiline. Therapy with these agents should be administered cautiously in patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or a history of mania.
Neurological Disorders
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Neurological Disorders.
Reversible and dose-related nervous system toxicity such as dizziness, paresthesia, tremor and involuntary movements, lack of coordination, abnormal gait and ataxia is commonly noted in patients receiving amiodarone. Therapy with amiodarone should be administered cautiously and dosage modifications considered in patients with or predisposed to neurologic dysfunction.
Neutropenia
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Neutropenia.
The use of some tricyclic antidepressants has been associated with neutropenia (ANC < 500/mm3) and agranulocytosis (ANC < 500/mm3). Leukocyte and differential blood counts should be performed in patients that develop fever and sore throat during treatment. Therapy should be discontinued if there is evidence of pathologic neutrophil depression.
Parkinsonism
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Parkinsonism.
Reversible and dose-related nervous system toxicity such as dizziness, paresthesia, tremor and involuntary movements, lack of coordination, abnormal gait and ataxia is commonly noted in patients receiving amiodarone. Therapy with amiodarone should be administered cautiously and dosage modifications considered in patients with or predisposed to neurologic dysfunction.
Pheochromocytoma
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Pheochromocytoma.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may potentiate the effects of circulating catecholamines. Enhanced sympathetic activity can provoke hypertensive crises in patients with pheochromocytoma or other tumors of the adrenal medulla, such as some neuroblastomas. Therapy with TCAs should be administered cautiously in patients with these tumors.
Psoriasis
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Psoriasis.
The use of certain antimalarial agents is contraindicated in patients with known prolongation of QT interval as these patients can develop fatal arrhythmias. These drugs should also be avoided in patients with clinical conditions known to prolong the QT interval, such as uncorrected hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, bradycardia, and certain other cardiac conditions. Caution is advised in patients taking other medications that can prolong the QT interval.
Pulmonary Impairment
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Pulmonary Impairment.
Pulmonary toxicities such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis or interstitial/alveolar pneumonitis are potentially fatal (approximately 10% of the time) and have occurred in as many as 10% to 17% of patients administered daily dosages of approximately 400 mg of amiodarone. More frequently, asymptomatic abnormal diffusion capacity has been observed. Patients with preexisting pulmonary dysfunction does not appear to have an increased risk of pulmonary toxicity; however, they have a poorer prognosis if toxicity does develop. Thus, the risks and benefits of amiodarone therapy should be weighed carefully. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function, including chest X-ray (baseline and every 3 to 6 months) and pulmonary function tests (with diffusion capacity), is recommended in all patients receiving amiodarone therapy. Any new respiratory symptom during treatment should be evaluated promptly and thoroughly, since toxicity is more likely to be reversible if diagnosed and managed early. Patients who develop hypersensitivity pneumonitis should be withdrawn permanently from amiodarone therapy and treated with steroids. In the case of interstitial/alveolar pneumonitis, steroid therapy and dosage reduction or discontinuation of amiodarone, if possible, usually result in clinical improvement. Subsequent rechallenge with amiodarone at reduced dosages does not always lead to return of toxicity and may be considered in some patients. The use of a lower loading dose and maintenance doses may also decrease the incidence of amiodarone- induced pulmonary toxicity.
Renal Dysfunction
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.
Some anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics are extensively metabolized by the liver, and excreted in the urine. Patients with impaired renal and/or hepatic function may be at greater risk for adverse effects, including central nervous system and respiratory depression, due to drug and metabolite accumulation. Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in such patients, with careful dose selection usually starting at the low end of the dosing range.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.
In general, tricyclic antidepressants should be used with caution in patients with liver or renal disease, as these drugs are metabolized and excreted through the liver and kidneys. Dose selection, especially in the elderly patients that might have liver or renal dysfunction, should usually be limited to the smallest effective total daily dose. Some tricyclic antidepressants such as clomipramine and nortriptyline have occasionally been associated with elevations in SGOT (AST) and SGPT (ALT), and other hepatic adverse events such as jaundice. Although serious liver injury has only been reported rarely, therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting liver disease and periodic monitoring of liver enzyme levels is recommended.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are known to undergo metabolism in the liver. Some of the metabolites, such as those of imipramine, clomipramine and desipramine, may be pharmacologically active. Many of the metabolites are also excreted by the kidney. There are very limited data concerning the use of TCAs in patients with renal and/or liver disease. Therapy with TCAs should be administered cautiously in patients with significantly impaired renal or hepatic function. Dosage adjustments may be necessary.
Schizophrenia
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Schizophrenia.
Some tricyclic antidepressants have shown to cause activation or exacerbation of psychosis in schizophrenic patients. A dosage reduction might be required.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Schizophrenia.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may aggravate symptoms of psychosis in schizophrenic patients, particularly those with paranoid symptomatology. Depressed patients, usually those with bipolar disorder, may experience a switch from depression to mania or hypomania. These occurrences have also been reported rarely with the tetracyclic antidepressant, maprotiline. Therapy with these agents should be administered cautiously in patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or a history of mania.
Tardive Dyskinesia
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Tardive Dyskinesia.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Tertiary amines such as amitriptyline and trimipramine tend to exhibit greater anticholinergic effects than other agents in the class. As with other drugs that possess anticholinergic activity, TCAs may aggravate tardive dyskinesia or induce previously suppressed symptoms. Patients with tardive dyskinesia requiring therapy with TCAs should be monitored for exacerbation of the condition.
Underactive Thyroid
Moderate:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.
Amiodarone inhibits peripheral conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) and also contributes inorganic iodine that can result in altered thyroid function tests, hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism. Therapy with amiodarone should be administered cautiously in patients with thyroid dysfunction. Clinical monitoring, including baseline and periodic evaluation of thyroid function is recommended. Modification of thyroid therapy may be necessary.
Urinary Retention
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Urinary Retention.
Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Tertiary amines such as amitriptyline and trimipramine tend to exhibit greater anticholinergic effects than other agents in the class. Therapy with TCAs should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. In patients with angle-closure glaucoma, even average doses can precipitate an attack. Glaucoma should be treated and under control prior to initiation of therapy with TCAs, and intraocular pressure monitored during therapy.
Major:
doxepin
Doxepin has a major potential interaction with Urinary Retention.
The use of doxepin is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, or a tendency to urinary retention. These disorders should be ruled out before starting treatment, especially in elderly patients.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Urinary Retention.
Some hypnotic drugs can have an anticholinergic effect and should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, and trouble urinating due to retention or enlarged prostate.
Moderate:
doxepin
Doxepin has a moderate potential interaction with Urinary Retention.
Due to their anticholinergic properties, tricyclic antidepressants should be administered with caution in patients with history of urinary retention. Particularly doxepin hydrochloride capsules are contraindicated in patients with tendency to urinary retention.
Visual Defect/Disturbance
Major:
amiodarone
Amiodarone has a major potential interaction with Visual Defect/Disturbance.
Optic neuropathy and/or neuritis has occurred during administration of amiodarone and has resulted in visual impairment such as changes in visual acuity, decrease in peripheral vision, and blindness. Optic toxicity can occur at any time following initiation of amiodarone. Therapy with amiodarone should be administered cautiously in patients with visual defects. Regular ophthalmologic examinations including fundoscopy and slit- lamp examinations are recommended.
More resources
amiodarone
A total of 782 drugs are known to interact with amiodarone.
- Amiodarone is in the drug class group III antiarrhythmics.
- Amiodarone is used to treat the following conditions:
doxepin
A total of 735 drugs are known to interact with doxepin.
- Doxepin is in the following drug classes: miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics, tricyclic antidepressants.
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Doxepin is used to treat the following conditions:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (off-label)
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Neuropathic Pain (off-label)
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (off-label)
- Urticaria
Drug Interaction Classification
| Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit. | |
| Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances. | |
| Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan. | |
| No interaction information available. |
Further information
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