There could be several reasons why your psychiatrist prescribed doxepin for your depression instead of a more well-known antidepressant:
Individualized Treatment: Psychiatrists often consider an individual's unique medical history, symptoms, and response to previous treatments when choosing an antidepressant. Different people may respond differently to various medications, so your psychiatrist may have selected doxepin based on factors specific to your case.
Comorbid Conditions: If you have other medical conditions or comorbidities, some antidepressants might not be suitable due to potential interactions or side effects. Doxepin, for example, is a tricyclic antidepressant that can also be used for other conditions like insomnia or anxiety.
Tolerability and Side Effect Profile: Different antidepressants have varying side effect profiles. Your psychiatrist may have chosen doxepin because it is well-tolerated by you or has side effects that you can manage better than other medications.
Previous Treatment Response: If you have previously tried other antidepressants without significant improvement or experienced intolerable side effects, your psychiatrist may opt for a different class of antidepressant like doxepin.
Availability and Cost: Sometimes, the choice of medication can also be influenced by factors like drug availability, cost, and insurance coverage.
Personal Experience: Psychiatrists might have specific experience and success with certain medications, including those that may not be as well-known.
It's important to trust your psychiatrist's judgment, as they are medical professionals trained to make informed decisions about your mental health treatment. If you have any concerns about the prescribed medication or its effectiveness, be sure to discuss them openly with your psychiatrist. They can provide you with more information about why they chose doxepin and address any questions or uncertainties you may have. Additionally, remember that the effectiveness of antidepressants often takes time, and regular communication with your psychiatrist is crucial for monitoring progress and making any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.