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Compare Rozerem vs. Doxepin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ramelteon (Rozerem) and doxepin are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist used to treat insomnia by mimicking the natural hormone melatonin to help you fall asleep. It is not a controlled substance and is not habit-forming. On the other hand, doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety, and it can take 2 to 3 weeks to notice its full effects. Doxepin is not a first-choice treatment due to its many side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation, and it can lead to withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Ramelteon is typically taken 30 minutes before bedtime on an empty stomach, while doxepin can be taken once daily, often at bedtime if it causes sleepiness. Unlike ramelteon, doxepin requires careful monitoring for worsening depression or suicidal thoughts, especially in younger individuals. Both medications should not be taken with alcohol due to increased risks of side effects.

  • Ramelteon (Rozerem)
    Doxepin (Sinequan)
  • Ramelteon (Rozerem)
    Doxepin (Sinequan)

  • Summary of Rozerem vs. Doxepin

    Summary for Melatonin receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Ramelteon (Rozerem) is a sleeping pill used to treat insomnia in adults. It belongs to the drug class known as melatonin receptor agonists and works like melatonin. Ramelteon (Rozerem) is taken by mouth, typically about 30 minutes before bedtime. Unlike some other prescription sleep medications, ramelteon (Rozerem) isn't a controlled substance nor known to be habit-forming. Side effects of ramelteon (Rozerem) aren't common, but can include drowsiness and dizziness.

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Doxepin (Sinequan) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It comes as a capsule that's taken by mouth to treat depression or anxiety in people over the age of 12. But it's not a first-choice option for these conditions because of the risk of side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight gain. The typical dose of doxepin (Sinequan) ranges from 75 mg to 150 mg by mouth once daily. It's available as a generic capsule and oral solution; the brand name (Sinequan) is discontinued. <br> Note: Doxepin (Silenor) tablets are FDA-approved for insomnia.

  • Indications of Rozerem vs. Doxepin

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep)
    Indications for
    •Depression
    •Anxiety

  • Pros and Cons of Rozerem vs. Doxepin

    Pros and Const for Melatonin receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Not a controlled substance and isn't known to be habit-forming
    •Fewer side effects than some other sleep medications
    •Available as a generic medication
    Cons
    •Shouldn't take with or right after a high-fat meal
    •Can interact with many medications, including fluconazole, rifampin, and fluvoxamine
    •Not recommended for people with sleep apnea or severe liver problems
    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Typically taken once daily
    •Available as oral capsules and solution
    Cons
    •Need to avoid alcohol while taking it
    •Can take 2 to 3 weeks before you notice the full effects for depression
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the medication suddenly

  • Common Side Effects of Rozerem vs. Doxepin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (4%)
    •Sleepiness (3%)
    •Fatigue (3%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Worsening insomnia (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Blurred vision
    •Dry mouth
    •Constipation
    •Trouble passing urine

  • Warnings of Rozerem vs. Doxepin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reaction
    •Changes in behavior and unusual thoughts
    •Other causes of insomnia
    •Caution while driving
    •Hormonal changes
    Common Side Effects for
    •Suicidal thoughts or behavior
    •Unmasking of bipolar disorder
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Drowsiness

  • Prices with our coupons for Rozerem vs. Doxepin

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    Learn more about Doxepin

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