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Doxepin

Prescription

Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA)

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

2 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Inhibits reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine with potent H1 and H2 antihistamine activity (most antihistaminic of all TCAs). Also has anticholinergic and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties. Used for pruritus, anxiety, and allergic conditions.

At a glance

Class

Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA)

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for allergic dermatitis (dual H1/H2 blockade provides superior antipruritic

Dose

3–5 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q12h

🐈

Cat

Used for feline psychogenic alopecia, pruritus, and anxiety

Dose

0.5–1 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q12–24h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Pruritus/allergy responseSedation levelBody weightCBC periodically

Educational reference only

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Selegiline (L-Deprenyl)

contraindicated

TCA + MAO inhibitor: serotonin syndrome.

Management: NEVER combine. Allow 2-week washout between agents.

Major — 1

Tramadol

major

Both serotonergic (doxepin: SRI/antihistamine; tramadol: SRI/opioid). Serotonin syndrome risk.

Management: Avoid combination. Use non-serotonergic analgesic.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Sinequan

Silenor

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Doxepin?

Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant (tca) used in pets. Inhibits reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine with potent H1 and H2 antihistamine activity (most antihistaminic of all TCAs). Also has anticholinergic and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties. Used for pruritus, anxiety, and allergic conditions.

›What is Doxepin used for in pets?

Doxepin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for allergic dermatitis (dual H1/H2 blockade provides superior antipruritic; Used for feline psychogenic alopecia, pruritus, and anxiety.

›What is the Doxepin dose for dogs?

For dogs, Doxepin is typically dosed as follows — Used for allergic dermatitis (dual H1/H2 blockade provides superior antipruritic: 3–5 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Doxepin dose for cats?

For cats, Doxepin is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline psychogenic alopecia, pruritus, and anxiety: 0.5–1 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Doxepin need a prescription?

Yes. Doxepin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only