Paroxetine is a prescription medication used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and certain mood-related conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Available in different strengths like paroxetine 10 mg and paroxetine 12.5 mg, it works by balancing serotonin levels in the brain.
Common paroxetine uses include treatment of major depressive disorder, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorder. Though generally well-tolerated, some paroxetine side effects may include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, and sleep disturbances.
What Is Paroxetine?
Paroxetine is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of medicines. Paroxetine affects brain chemicals that may be out of control in individuals suffering from depression , anxiety , or other mental illnesses. Paroxetine is a medication that is used to treat depression, especially major depressive disorder.
Paxil is a brand name for paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, in the brain. Paxil is available in tablet, suspension, and extended-release forms.
Paroxetine Uses
Paroxetine is an antidepressant that is often used to treat panic attacks , obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) , anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It functions by assisting in the restoration of a natural substance (serotonin) balance in the brain. Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This medication can help you regain interest in daily activities by improving your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels. It has been shown to reduce fear, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and panic attacks. It may also lessen the desire to perform repetitive tasks (compulsions like hand-washing, counting, and checking) that obstruct everyday life.
Sexual anxiety or premature ejaculation (off-label)
How Does Paroxetine Work?
Paroxetine is an SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor). It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, a chemical that helps improve mood, sleep, and emotional balance. By preventing serotonin from being reabsorbed too quickly, paroxetine 10 mg or paroxetine 12.5 mg helps reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and related conditions.
Paroxetine Dosage
The typical starting dose varies by condition but is usually paroxetine 10 mg to 20 mg per day for adults. The dose may be increased gradually based on response and the doctor's advice. Never adjust the dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose of paroxetine, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose to make up for it.
What Happens If There Is an Overdose?
An overdose of paroxetine can be serious. It may affect the nervous system and other body functions. Immediate medical attention is crucial.
Symptoms of Paroxetine Overdose May Include:
Drowsiness or dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Seizures
Breathing difficulties
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Paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), increases serotonin levels in the brain. While this helps treat depression and anxiety, it can disrupt the balance of other neurotransmitters, leading to side effects.
While paroxetine is generally safe when taken as prescribed, some people may experience rare but serious side effects. If any of the following occur, seek immediate medical attention:
Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in young adults and adolescents
Seizures or convulsions
Abnormal bleeding or easy bruising
Manic episodes (unusual excitement, racing thoughts, extreme energy)
What Are the Precautions of Paroxetine?
If you are allergic to paroxetine or have some other reactions, notify your doctor or pharmacist before taking it. Inactive ingredients can be present in this product, causing allergic reactions or other issues.
Inform your doctor about any kind of medical history you had previously, particularly if you have a personal or family history of bipolar or manic-depressive disorder, a personal or family history of seizures, liver or kidney problems, low sodium in the blood, intestinal peptic ulcer disease or bleeding problems, or a personal or family history of glaucoma .
This medication can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision . You can get dizzy or sleepy if you consume alcohol or marijuana (cannabis). Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform any other activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can do so safely. Alcoholic drinks should be avoided.
Older adults might be more sensitive towards the side effects of this drug, especially bleeding or loss of coordination. Older adults are also more likely to develop a form of salt imbalance (hyponatremia), especially if they take water pills (diuretics). Falls may be exacerbated by a loss of control.
Children may be more reactive towards the drug's side effects, appetite loss , and weight loss . In children who are taking this medication, keep track of their weight and height.
It is not advised to take this drug while pregnant. It has the potential to damage an unborn child, and babies born to mothers who used it during the last three months of pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms including feeding/ breathing problems , seizures, muscle weakness , or excessive crying. However, since untreated mental/ mood issues (such as depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety) will affect a pregnant woman and her unborn child, do not stop taking this drug until your doctor tells you to.
This medicine might pass into the breastmilk. Therefore, consult your doctor before breastfeeding .
Drug Interactions and Storage of Paroxetine
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
Paroxetine can interact with many other medications. Combining it with other antidepressants, blood thinners (like warfarin), or NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) may increase the risk of bleeding. Using it with other serotonin-boosting drugs (such as triptans, tramadol, or MAO inhibitors) can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Supplements and Herbal Products
Some supplements and herbal products, especially St. John s Wort or 5-HTP, may intensify side effects or interfere with how paroxetine works. Always discuss with your doctor before combining any supplements with this medication.
How Should Paroxetine Be Stored?
Store paroxetine tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it in its original packaging and out of reach of children.
Recommended Storage Temperature
Store at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
What Happens If Paroxetine Is Not Stored Properly?
Exposure to heat, humidity, or sunlight can reduce the effectiveness of paroxetine. Improper storage may also lead to degradation of the medication, making it unsafe or less effective.
Paroxetine vs Fluoxetine
Paroxetine
Fluoxetine
Paroxetine is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of medicines.
Fluoxetine is also an SSRI that works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain.
It affects brain chemicals that may be imbalanced in individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions.
Fluoxetine helps manage depression, anxiety, panic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms by increasing serotonin availability in the brain.
Used to treat major depressive disorder, panic attacks, OCD, social anxiety disorder, and PTSD.
Used to treat major depressive disorder, OCD, bulimia nervosa, panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Paroxetine treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and panic disorders by balancing serotonin levels.
Yes, paroxetine is a strong SSRI antidepressant commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety.
Stopping paroxetine suddenly may cause dizziness, nausea, irritability, and withdrawal symptoms.
Yes, paroxetine effectively treats anxiety, social phobia, panic attacks, and generalized anxiety disorder.
Paroxetine can lead to weight gain over time. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise can help manage it.
Take paroxetine in the morning or night depending on how it affects your energy or sleep patterns.
The usual starting dose is 10–20 mg daily, adjusted by your doctor based on your anxiety level.
Paroxetine may cause mild memory or focus issues in some users, especially during the early weeks.
Paroxetine lasts around 24 hours with daily use and has a half-life of approximately 21 hours.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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