Zonalon (Doxepin) for Chronic Pain

Overview
Zonalon is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat pruritis (itching) in adults who have atopic dermatitis or lichen simplex chronicus. Zonalon is sometimes prescribed to treat neuropathic pain. Zonalon is also referred to by its drug name, Doxepin. Doxepin is also sold as an oral medication under the brand name Silenor.

Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant. Doxepin is believed to work by interfering with the process of allergic reactions and changing the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

How do I take it?
Zonalon is applied topically four times each day.

Zonalon comes in cream form.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Zonalon lists common side effects including drowsiness and burning or stinging at application sites.