Zonalon Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Generic name: Doxepin- topical cream (dox-EH-pin)

Brand name (S): Zonalon

Zonalon (doxepin hydrochloride) Cream, 5% is a topical cream. Topical doxepin (DOX-e-pin) is used to relieve itching in patients with certain types of eczema. While the exact mechanism of antipruritic activity is unknown, doxepin exhibits potent histamine H1 and H2 receptor antagonist activity. A thin film of Zonalon Cream should be applied four times each day with at least a 3 to 4 hour interval between applications. Topical doxepin is for external use only . Do not use this medicine orally, do not use it on the eyes. It appears to work by preventing the effects of histamine, which is a substance produced by the body that causes itching. Generic doxepin skin cream is not yet available. Doxepin is also used to relieve symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic pain. It is not known exactly how it works.

Zonalon Dosage:

• The dose of topical doxepin will be different for different patients.
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) of the skin four times a day. Space the doses or applications at least three or four hours apart.
• Children-Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
• Use of Zonalon cream for longer than 8 days may result in an increased likelihood of contact sensitization.

Uses of Zonalon:

• Topical doxepin (DOX-e-pin) is used to relieve itching in patients with certain types of eczema.
• Doxepin is also used to relieve symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic pain.

Side Effects of Zonalon:

Some common side effects reported with this medicine include:

• Burning and/or stinging at the site of application.
• Abdominal pain and swelling.
• Dryness of mouth and/or lips.
• Extremely low body temperature.
• Burning, tingling feeling on the skin.
• Muscle stiffness or problems with movement.
• Fever or chills, with increased sweating.
• Incurable constipation.
• Decreased awareness or responsiveness.
• Dryness and tightness of skin.
• Swelling or itching, or worsening at the site of eczema.
• Increased or excessive unconscious or jerking movements.
• Extremely high fever or body temperature.

Warnings and precautions before taking Zonalon:

• If your skin problem does not improve after 8 days or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor.
• The sedating effects of alcoholic beverages, antihistamines, and other CNS depressants may be potentiated when Zonalon Cream is used.
• Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, allergies (especially drug allergies).
• If your mouth continues to feel dry for more than 2 weeks, check with your medical doctor or dentist.
• Do not cover with a bandage or otherwise wrap the area of skin being treated.
• Do not use over-the-counter medications to treat eczema without talking or checking with your doctor.

Drug Interaction:

• If you are taking certain drugs with zonalon, then other drugs may decreased or increased and altered the effects.
• Tell your prescriber or health care professional: about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription medicines.
• Do not use large amounts or use this more often than prescribed since the chance for side effects may be increased.
• Studies have not been performed examining drug interactions with Zonalon Cream.

Overdose:

• If you are taking zonalon and after taking you feel that the overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately.
• Zonalon Cream may be harmful if swallowed.
• Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
• Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.

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