-
Description
-
Reviews (0)
-
Related Products
-
Related Conditions
Fact Table
| Fact Table | |
|---|---|
| Formula | C19H20FNO3 |
| License | FDA approved (1992); EMA approved |
| Bioavailability | ~50% (oral; due to first-pass metabolism) |
| Legal status | Prescription only (Rx) |
| Chemical Name | (3S,4R)-3-[(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yloxy)methyl]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)piperidine |
| Elimination half-life | ~21 hours |
| Dosage (Strength) | 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg tablets; controlled-release tablets; oral suspension |
| Pregnancy | Category D – Risk of fetal harm; avoid if possible |
| Brands | Paxil, Paxil CR, Seroxat, generics available |
| Protein binding | ~95% |
| PubChem CID | 43815 |
| MedlinePlus | a698032 |
| ChEBI | 7937 |
| ATC code | N06AB05 |
| DrugBank | DB00715 |
| KEGG | D02360 |
| Routes of administration | By mouth (oral tablets and suspension) |
Paxil (paroxetine) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant that works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a natural substance that helps regulate mood and emotions. Paxil is commonly used to treat depression, several types of anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Directions
Take Paxil as directed by a healthcare provider, typically once daily in the morning with or without food. The dosage depends on the condition being treated. In most cases, the typical dosage is 10 or 20 mg once daily to start. It may then be gradually increased to 50 or 60 mg once daily.
Swallow the tablets whole and don't crush or chew them. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next scheduled dose. Don't take 2 doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
It may take several weeks to feel the full effects of the medication. Don't stop taking Paxil suddenly without consulting a doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Paxil is paroxetine.
Cautions
- Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications currently being taken
- Paxil may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in adolescents and young adults, especially during the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed.
- Paxil can cause a rare but serious condition called serotonin syndrome, especially when taken with other medications that increase serotonin. Symptoms may include agitation, fever, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, confusion, or diarrhea.
- Stopping Paxil suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, anxiety, irritability, trouble sleeping, nausea. Doses are lowered gradually rather than stopped all at once.
- Paxil may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly when taken with aspirin, NSAIDs, blood thinners, or other medications that affect clotting. Contact a healthcare provider if you notice unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or bleeding that doesn't stop.
- In some people with bipolar disorder, Paxil may trigger mania or hypomania, causing unusually high energy, racing thoughts, or risky behavior.
- Paxil can increase the risk of serotonin-related drug interactions that affect heart rhythm, and it should not be taken with certain medications like thioridazine or pimozide. Always tell
- your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements you take.
- Low sodium levels in the blood have been reported with Paxil, especially in older adults or people taking diuretics.
- Paxil may cause sexual side effects, such as reduced interest in sex or difficulty reaching orgasm. These effects are common and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
- Paxil is linked to an increased risk of side effects if used during early pregnancy, particularly related to fetal heart development. Anyone who is pregnant or planning pregnancy should discuss the risks and alternatives with their provider.
- Some people may experience anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, or restlessness when starting Paxil. These effects often improve over time but should be monitored if they are severe or persistent.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them within the last 14 days
- Using thioridazine or have used it within the last 14 days
- Taking pimozide
- Known allergy to paroxetine or any ingredients in the medication
- Taking linezolid or intravenous methylene blue
Side Effects
Common side effects of Paxil include:
- Nausea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Sleepiness or trouble sleeping
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Sweating
- Tremor or shaking
- Sexual side effects, such as decreased sex drive or difficulty with arousal or orgasm
These side effects are common with SSRIs and are often mild. Nausea, sleep changes, and dizziness are most noticeable when starting Paxil or after a dose change and may improve over time. Let your healthcare provider know if side effects continue or do not improve.
More serious side effects include serotonin syndrome, seizures, manic episodes, abnormal bleeding, low sodium levels in the blood, eye problems such as angle-closure glaucoma, and withdrawal symptoms if Paxil is stopped suddenly.Contact a healthcare provider if you experience severe agitation, confusion, vision changes, unusual bleeding, seizures, or thoughts of self-harm.
Frequently Asked Questions about Paxil (Paroxetine)
What is Paxil used for?
Paxil (paroxetine) is a prescription antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain to help improve mood and emotional stability.
How does Paxil work?
Paxil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, which increases the availability of this neurotransmitter. Higher serotonin levels are associated with improved mood, reduced anxiety, and relief from depressive symptoms.
How should Paxil be taken?
Paxil is taken by mouth, usually once daily in the morning, with or without food. It comes in immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets (Paxil CR), and oral suspension. Dosage varies depending on the condition being treated and individual response. It's important to take it consistently and not to stop suddenly without medical supervision.
What are common side effects of Paxil?
Common side effects include nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth, sweating, sexual dysfunction, insomnia, and dizziness. Some people may also experience weight gain or gastrointestinal upset. These side effects often improve after the first few weeks of treatment.
Can Paxil cause withdrawal symptoms?
Yes, stopping Paxil abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and flu-like feelings. To avoid this, Paxil should be tapered off gradually under a doctor’s supervision.
How long does it take for Paxil to work?
It may take 1 to 2 weeks to begin noticing mood improvements, but full therapeutic effects often take 4 to 6 weeks. Anxiety symptoms may take longer to respond. It's important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if improvements aren't immediate.
Is Paxil addictive or habit-forming?
Paxil is not considered addictive or habit-forming in the traditional sense, but discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms. This makes it important to take it exactly as prescribed and consult a healthcare provider before stopping.
Who should not take Paxil?
Paxil should not be taken by individuals using monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or those who have taken an MAOI in the past 14 days. It should also be used with caution in people with a history of bipolar disorder, seizures, liver or kidney problems, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can Paxil be taken during pregnancy?
Paxil is classified as a pregnancy category D drug, meaning there is evidence of risk to the fetus. It may be associated with congenital heart defects or withdrawal symptoms in newborns. It should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks, and this decision should be made by a healthcare provider.
Can Paxil interact with other medications?
Yes, Paxil can interact with many medications, including other antidepressants, blood thinners, NSAIDs, antipsychotics, and drugs that affect serotonin levels. These interactions can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, bleeding, or other serious effects. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
