Dothiepin belongs to a class of medication called tricyclic antidepressants. It is used for acute and maintenance treatment of depression.
Dothiepin can be taken orally as tablets or capsules. The usual initial dose is 25 mg three times a day or 75 mg as a single daily dose at bedtime. You may gradually increase the dose by 25-50 mg at intervals of 1-2 weeks if response is inadequate, of which up to 150 mg of the daily dose can be given as a single dose at bedtime. The maximum daily dose is 225 mg/day.
Swallow the tablets or capsules whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew it.
Common side effects of Dothiepin include dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, or headache.
It might take a few weeks for Dothiepin to reach its full effect. Do not stop taking Dothiepin suddenly during that time.
Common dosing schedule:
Administer in divided doses or as a single dose at night. The larger dose should be administered at night as it may produce drowsiness.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Dothiepin may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Dothiepin is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Dothiepin in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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