Compare Ambien vs. Doxepin
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Helps you sleep.
Ambien (zolpidem) aids in falling asleep and staying asleep, but it can be habit-forming and might be more likely than other sleep medicines to cause side effects.
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3.7/ 5 average rating with 1375 reviewsforAmbien
Helps you stop itching.
Zonalon (Doxepin) works well treating itchy skin, but could make you sleepy.
Upsides
- Effective at helping people fall asleep faster and sleep longer.
- Extended release form is particularly good for staying asleep, and you can use it for longer than the immediate release form.
- Generic is available.
- In clinical trials, Zonalon (Doxepin) was found to be the most effective cream for treating itchy skin.
- You can use Zonalon (Doxepin) for up to 8 days at a time.
Downsides
- Not typically used for long-term treatment because it can be habit-forming.
- Some people find that Ambien (zolpidem) becomes less effective over time.
- More likely to cause sleep-walking, sleep-driving, and sleep-eating.
- Might not be safe if you have problems with your liver, kidneys, lungs, or if you have a history of depression.
- You need a prescription for Zonalon (Doxepin).
- It isn't available as a generic, so it could be kind of pricey.
- Zonalon (Doxepin) can make you sleepy.
- Zonalon (Doxepin) can interact with other medications, vitamins, or alternative treatments.
Used for
- Skin intching (moderate)
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Oral spray
- Sublingual pill
- Cream, gel, or ointment
Price
Lowest price
$23.00
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$672.67
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Reviews
1375 reviews so far
67%
saidit'sworth it
50%
saiditworked well
16%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Ambien (zolpidem)?
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Side effects
18possible side effects
- Drowsiness8%
- Headache7%
- Dizziness5%
- Allergic reactions4%
- Sinus infection4%
- Dry mouth3%
- Back pain3%
- Lack of energy3%
- Drugged feeling3%
- Diarrhea3%
- Sore throat3%
- Flu-like symptoms2%
- Racing heart2%
- Lightheadedness2%
- Depression2%
- Abdominal pain2%
- Constipation2%
- Rash2%
The Zonalon (Doxepin) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
- Dependence and withdrawal
- Continuous use of Ambien (zolpidem) for 2 weeks or more
- Driving impairment
- Alcohol
- Taking other medications that make you less alert
- Less than 8 hours of sleep.
- Abnormal thoughts
- Undiagnosed psychiatric conditions
- Performing activities while asleep
- Taking Ambien (zolpidem) with alcohol or drugs that cause drowsiness
- Risk of falls and injury
- Higher dose
- Liver problems
- Taking Ambien (zolpidem) with other nervous system depressants
- Long-term use
- Elderly (70 years or older)
- Sleepiness