Silenor (Doxepin HCL)

Do’s

• Take Silenor by mouth on an empty stomach, as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once nightly.
• Take it within 30 minutes of bedtime for optimal effect.
• Aim for a consistent bedtime routine to maximize benefits.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your sleep problems continue or worsen after 7-10 days of using Silenor.

Don'ts

• Don't take Silenor within 3 hours of eating, as food can delay its effectiveness.
• Don't take Silenor unless you have enough time for a full night's sleep (7-8 hours) before needing to wake up for activities.
• Don't exceed it. Strictly adhere to the recommended dosage limit of 6 milligrams per day. 

Common side effects:

• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Nausea
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Eye pain or redness
• Chest pain
• Low red blood cells (anemia) - pale skin, unusual tiredness, feeling light-headed or short of breath, cold hands and feet
• Signs of infection - flu-like symptoms, swelling, skin redness, diarrhea, skin sores or white patches, trouble breathing, pain or burning when you urinate
• Serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Silenor,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have before taking Silenor, including allergies to doxepin, other tricyclic antidepressants, or any inactive ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have:

• Problems urinating (urinary retention)
• Personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type)

Silenor may cause drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you. Don't drink alcohol or use marijuana while taking Silenor.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before having surgery.

Silenor should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Babies born to mothers who take Silenor late in pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Silenor passes into breast milk and may harm your baby. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Silenor. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.