Dothiepin (dosulepin)

Tricyclic antidepressant
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Dothiepin is a tricyclic antidepressant found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Prothiaden 25. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: dosulepin

What it is used for

Treats depression; in low doses sometimes for pain or sleep.

How it works

A tricyclic antidepressant (dosulepin) used for depression and sometimes chronic pain; very dangerous in overdose.

How to take it

Usually at night, as prescribed.

Common side effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain
  • Dizziness on standing

Get medical help straight away if

  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Confusion
  • Thoughts of self-harm

Be careful

Causes drowsiness and dry mouth; dangerous in overdose.

Other medicines and interactions

Dangerous in overdose; keep away from children. More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives. Serotonin syndrome risk with tramadol, SSRIs and triptans; avoid with MAOIs.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor; some tricyclics are used in pregnancy and breastfeeding at low doses when needed.

Brands of Dothiepin (1)

Prothiaden 25

Common questions

What is Dothiepin used for?

Treats depression; in low doses sometimes for pain or sleep.

How does Dothiepin work?

A tricyclic antidepressant (dosulepin) used for depression and sometimes chronic pain; very dangerous in overdose.

How should I take Dothiepin?

Usually at night, as prescribed.

What are the side effects of Dothiepin?

Common: Dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, weight gain, dizziness on standing. Get help straight away for: Fast or irregular heartbeat, difficulty passing urine, confusion, thoughts of self-harm.

Does Dothiepin interact with other medicines?

Dangerous in overdose; keep away from children. More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives. Serotonin syndrome risk with tramadol, SSRIs and triptans; avoid with MAOIs.

Is Dothiepin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor; some tricyclics are used in pregnancy and breastfeeding at low doses when needed.

Does Dothiepin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Dothiepin?

Prothiaden 25.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.