Dosulepin (Dothiepin): What it is and when it’s used
Dosulepin is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) you might hear called dothiepin. It’s an older drug that still helps some people who haven’t done well on newer antidepressants. It works on brain chemicals that affect mood and sleep, so it can ease depression, low energy, and some anxiety symptoms.
How dosulepin is used
Doctors usually start low and go slow. A typical starting dose might be around 25–75 mg a day, and some people move to 75–150 mg daily under medical supervision. Your doctor will pick a dose based on how you respond and any side effects. Don’t change the dose or stop suddenly — withdrawal can be unpleasant, so tapering under a doctor’s guidance is safer.
It can also help with sleep problems because it often makes people drowsy. For nerve pain or other off-label uses, doctors may adjust the dose differently. If you’re prescribed dosulepin, ask how long you’ll need it — antidepressants usually take a few weeks to show benefit and many people stay on treatment for months to prevent relapse.
Side effects & safety tips
Dosulepin has some common and some serious side effects. Expect dry mouth, constipation, blurry vision, drowsiness, and weight changes. It can cause dizziness and low blood pressure when you stand up, which raises fall risk, especially in older adults.
There are serious warnings too. TCAs can affect heart rhythm, so your doctor may check an ECG if you have heart issues. Overdose can be dangerous — TCAs are more toxic in large amounts than many newer antidepressants. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your doctor or emergency services right away.
Interactions matter. Do not mix dosulepin with MAO inhibitors. Combining with some other antidepressants or certain migraine and pain meds can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome, a dangerous reaction. Alcohol and strong sedatives will increase sleepiness and risk of accidents.
Special groups: older adults are more sensitive to side effects and usually need lower doses. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor — they’ll weigh risks and benefits. Always tell your prescriber about other medications and health problems.
Practical tips: take dosulepin at the same time each day, often at night if it makes you sleepy. Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Keep regular follow-ups so your doctor can check progress, side effects, and whether an ECG or blood tests are needed.
If you’re thinking of buying dosulepin online, use only licensed pharmacies that require a prescription and provide pharmacist contact. Avoid sites that sell without prescriptions — counterfeit or unsafe products are common.
Questions for your doctor: what dose should I expect, how long before it helps, which side effects need urgent care, and how will we stop it safely if needed? Keep those answers handy so you can use this medicine as safely as possible.
