About Acetaminophen vs. Doxepin

Doxepin and acetaminophen are similar in that they are both used for pain relief. The similarity stops there. Acetaminophen is a lightweight over-the-counter drug used to treat mild pain symptoms with little or no side effects, while doxepin is a powerful pain reliever that is loaded with side effects.

Function

Acetaminophen is used for pain relief. This drug is over-the-counter and is used in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of more severe pain. This drug reduces the amount of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body. Doxepin is used as an antidepressant and a anti-itch remedy. This drug inhibits serotonin and nonadrenaline. Doxepin is also a strong anesthetic and has the ability to sedate those who have doxepin administered.

History

Acetanilide was once found in willow bark and cinchona bark. Acetanilide was refined from these substances in the 1900's. Acetanilide was found to decrease the blood's ability to absorb oxygen, but scientists later discovered that acetaminophen could be separated from acetanilide and did not have the same effect on the blood. Doxepin does not have much of a history.

Significance

Acetaminophen is not carcinogenic, which gives those taking acetaminophen the peace of mind in knowing that it does not cause cancer. Acetaminophen does not have many adverse effects on the body. While acetaminophen is a relatively mild over-the-counter medication, doxepin is a powerful treatment for depression, anxiety, insomnia, the healing of ulcers and chronic pain.

Warning

Though acetaminophen drug is normally very safe, excessive doses of acetaminophen can cause liver damage or liver failure. Acetaminophen can cause digestive problems like stomach bleeding. Acetaminophen can also cause rebound headaches. For doxepin, side effects abound. Common symptoms of doxepin are agitation, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, frequently impaired sexual function in men, frequently increased appetite, increased anxiety, insomnia, lightheadedness, massive weight gain, nightmares, constipation, photo sensitivity, nausea and skin rashes.

Identification

Acetaminophen was originally put into children Tylenol, since acetaminophen does not irritate the stomach. Acetaminophen is now found in a large variety of aspirins such as Aspirin-Free Anacin, Atasol, Banesin, Datril Extra-Strength and Few Drops. The brand names for doxepin are Sinequan and Adapin.