Pharmacokinetics of doxepin in subjects with pruritic atopic dermatitis.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Doxepin applied topically by itself or in combination with triamcinolone acetonide is a safe and effective treatment for atopic dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE:

We evaluated the pharmacokinetic profile of doxepin and desmethyldoxepin after topical application of doxepin hydrochloride 5% cream alone or in combination with 0.025% triamcinolone acetonide (doxepin/TAC).

METHODS:

Twenty-four subjects with atopic dermatitis received either doxepin or doxepin/TAC cream 4 times daily for 7 days in a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Serum samples were obtained and pharmacokinetic parameters estimated from the dose-normalized serum concentrations of doxepin and desmethyldoxepin. Efficacy and adverse experiences were determined by physician and subject evaluations.

RESULTS:

Pharmacokinetic parameters (K(e ), t(1/2 ) and AUC) calculated in 9 subjects (doxepin/TAC = 4 subjects, doxepin = 5 subjects) with detectable serum concentrations were similar for both groups. Pruritus relief and lessening of pruritus severity were significantly greater with doxepin/TAC than doxepin alone.

CONCLUSION:

Topically applied doxepin is safe and effective therapy for pruritus.

• Authors: L A Drake, L Cohen, R Gillies, J G Flood, A T Riordan, S B Phillips, M J Stiller
• Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (J Am Acad Dermatol) Vol. 41 Issue 2 Pt 1 Pg. 209-14 (Aug 1999) ISSN: 0190-9622 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10426891 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Anti-Inflammatory Agents
• Antipruritics
• Drug Combinations
• Ointments
• Doxepin
• Triamcinolone Acetonide
• desmethyldoxepin

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Adult
• Anti-Inflammatory Agents (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Antipruritics (administration & dosage, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic use)
• Dermatitis, Atopic (drug therapy)
• Double-Blind Method
• Doxepin (administration & dosage, analogs & derivatives, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic use)
• Drug Combinations
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Ointments
• Triamcinolone Acetonide (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)