Key takeaways
Estazolam (formerly branded as Prosom) and doxepin (formerly branded as Sinequan) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Estazolam is a benzodiazepine used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, helping you fall asleep and stay asleep. It is a controlled substance (Schedule IV) due to its potential for misuse and dependence. On the other hand, doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used to treat depression and anxiety, and it is not a controlled substance. While estazolam works quickly and is taken right before bed, doxepin can take 2 to 3 weeks to show its full effects for depression and is usually taken once daily. Estazolam is only available as a generic tablet, whereas doxepin is also available in different forms, including an oral solution. Both medications can cause drowsiness, but estazolam is specifically noted for causing sleep-related behaviors like sleepwalking and sleep driving, which are not mentioned for doxepin. Additionally, doxepin has a broader range of side effects, including dry mouth and constipation, and carries a risk of worsening depression and suicidal thoughts, especially in younger individuals.
