Doxepin Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 7, 2024.

Applies to doxepin topical: topical cream.

Serious side effects of doxepin topical

Along with its needed effects, doxepin topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking doxepin topical:

More common side effects

• burning, crawling, or tingling sensation of the skin
• swelling at the site of application
• worsening of eczema and itching

Rare side effects

• fever

Symptoms of overdose

• abdominal pain and swelling
• blurring of vision
• convulsions (seizures)
• decreased awareness or responsiveness
• difficulty in breathing
• difficulty in passing urine
• dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness
• drowsiness
• enlarged pupils
• excessive dryness of mouth
• extremely high fever or body temperature
• extremely low body temperature
• fast heartbeat
• increased or excessive unconscious or jerking movements
• incurable constipation
• irregular heartbeat
• unconsciousness
• vomiting
• weak pulse

Other side effects of doxepin topical

Some side effects of doxepin topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• burning and/or stinging at the site of application
• changes in taste
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• dryness and tightness of skin
• dryness of mouth and/or lips
• emotional changes
• headache
• thirst
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common side effects

• anxiety
• irritation, tingling, scaling, and cracking of skin
• nausea

For healthcare professionals

Applies to doxepin topical: topical cream.

General adverse events

The most frequently reported adverse effects were drowsiness and burning/stinging at application site.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Drowsiness (up to 22%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Dizziness, taste perversion
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Headache
• Frequency not reported: Lightheadedness, taste bitter, taste metallic^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Dry mouth
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Numbness of tongue, nausea
• Frequency not reported: Dry lips, dry throat, thirst, indigestion, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Pruritus, eczema exacerbated
• Frequency not reported: Localized rash, pruritus exacerbated
• Postmarketing reports: Allergic contact dermatitis^[Ref]

Local

• Very common (10% or more): Burning/stinging (23%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Other application site reaction
• Frequency not reported: Irritation, tingling^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Frequency not reported: Urinary retention^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Type IV hypersensitivity reaction^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Blurred vision, dry eyes^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): Fatigue/tiredness, edema
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Fever
• Frequency not reported: Vertigo^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Common (1% to 10%): Mental emotional changes
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Nervousness/anxiety^[Ref]

Further information

Doxepin topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer