In a double-blind study, 15 cigarette smokers self-monitored 10
withdrawal symptoms. For the first 21 days (baseline), subjects received
doxepin hydrochloride, up to 150 mg/day, or inert medication while
continuing to smoke. On day 22, they were instructed to stop smoking;
medication was continued. Withdrawal symptoms on the first 28 days of
treatment (baseline and 7 days of attempted cessation) were analyzed.
During cessation, subjects taking doxepin reported significantly less
craving for cigarettes. Results from this study and others suggest that
antidepressants may attenuate the severity of symptoms during withdrawal
from addictive substances.
Abstract Teaser