Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Doxepin helps itching, why;?

09/04/2001

Question:

I have had non rash itching for about 10 years, usually on my extremities but also on trunk, face, head etc. Once I start itching it will “travel” on whatever side I started itching e.g. right hand to right arm to right leg, etc. For the last couple of years I have taken 25 mg of Doxepin at night for sleep and noticed that my itching disappeared. As I fade the Doxepin (take it 1 or 2 times per week) the itching returns after a couple of days without the drug. Any insights would be appreciated.

Answer:

The cause for your itching is not clear. But it is not unusual or unique. I assume that you have checked with your family doctor or dermatologist to insure you do not have some identifiable cause. You should do so if you have not contacted one of them already. That is the best way to solve the problem of itching.

Doxepin is used to suppress itching. It has a number of known effects including functioning as an anti histamine. Histamine is one of several chemicals in the skin that cause itching. So blocking it would help suppress it. Doxepin also can suppress the centers in the brain where the sensation of itching is brought to consciousness. And there are other mechanisms.

Doxepin is commonly used at night just because it is often a successful way to manage itching of unknown etiology.

For more information:

Go to the Skin Care and Diseases health topic.