Paxil (Paroxetine) - Uses, Side Effects and Precautions

Paxil (paroxetine) is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors class of medicines (SSRIs). Paroxetine affects brain chemicals that may be out of control in individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses. Paxil is a medication that is used to treat depression, such as major depressive disorder.


Paxil Uses

  • Paxil is used to treat depression, such as major depressive disorder.
  • It also treats panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

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How to Use Paxil CR

  • Take Paxil exactly as directed by your doctor. Read all drug manuals or guidance sheets and follow all instructions on your prescription bottle. Your doctor may adjust your dose from time to time.
  • Do not crush, chew or crack the Paxil CR extended-release tablet; swallow it whole.
  • Shake the Paxil oral suspension (liquid) well before using. Use the given dosing syringe or a drug dose-measuring unit (not a kitchen spoon).
  • It may take up to four weeks for your symptoms to improve. Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after taking the drug as prescribed.
  • Do not suddenly stop taking Paxil, as you may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Inquire with your doctor on how to safely avoid taking this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions to taper your dose.
  • Store Paxil away from moisture, sunlight, and light at room temperature.

Paxil Side Effects

  • Weakness
  • Skin rash
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Dry mouth
  • Fever
  • Restlessness
  • Shivering
  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Drowsiness

Precautions

  • Do not take Paxil if you're taking pimozide or thioridazine.
  • Avoid Paxil if you've taken an MAO inhibitor like isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline or tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
  • Some young people may have suicidal thoughts when taking an antidepressant for the first time. Keep a close eye on any changes in your mood or symptoms and inform your doctor of any new or worsening symptoms.
  • Seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms such as anxiety, hallucinations, muscle weakness, twitching, lack of balance, dizziness, warmth or tingling sensations, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sweating or tremors.
  • The drug's side effects, especially bleeding and loss of coordination, may be more severe in older adults. 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 prone to the drug's adverse effects, especially appetite loss and weight loss. Children taking this medication may have changes in their weight.
  • It is not advised to take this drug during pregnancy. It has the potential to harm an unborn child, and babies born to mothers who used it during the last three months of pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms such as feeding/breathing problems, seizures, muscle weakness or excessive crying. Consult with your doctor to see if a particular prescription is appropriate for you. Inform your doctor immediately if you're expecting.
  • This medication is excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor.

Dosage Guidelines for Paxil

  • Drug interactions might lead your drugs to function differently or put you at risk for severe side effects.
  • Thioridazine, as well as other drugs that can cause bleeding or bruising, can interact with this medication (including antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, and blood thinners such as warfarin).
  • All of your medications (such as allergy or cough and cold remedies) should be checked for ingredients that cause drowsiness. Inquire with your pharmacist about the proper use of those drugs.
  • This medication can cause false test results in some medical/laboratory tests (including a brain scan for Parkinson's disease). Ensure your laboratory staff and all of your physicians are aware that you are taking this medication.

Overdose

  • If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, seek medical advice. Do not take more than the prescribed amount.

Missed Dose

  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is already near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dosage at regular intervals. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

  • Store Paxil at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications far away from children. Never flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drainage.

Before taking Paxil, consult your doctor. If you experience any problems or side effects after taking Paxil, seek immediate medical attention. Carry your medications with you while traveling to avoid any emergencies. Always follow your doctor's advice when taking Paxil.

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Paxil vs Zoloft:

Paxil Zoloft
Paxil belongs from a drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) Zoloft belongs from a drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
The generic name of Paxil is Paroxetine The generic name of Zoloft is Sertraline
The standard dosage given is 10-60 mg daily, depending on the indication and response to treatment The standard dosage given is 50-200 mg daily, depending on the indication and response to treatment
This medicine is used to treat depression, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder Zoloft is a medication that is used to treat depression, such as major depressive disorder.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Paxil good for anxiety?

Yes, Paxil is an FDA-approved medication for treating anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, and panic disorder. Studies have shown it to be effective for these conditions.

2. How quickly does Paxil start working?

Paxil typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to show its full benefits. While you may not notice changes in the first week or two, it's important to continue taking the medication as prescribed.

3. Is weight gain a side effect of Paxil?

Yes, weight gain can be a side effect of Paxil, similar to other SSRIs. The sedative effects of the medication may contribute to reduced physical activity, leading to weight gain.

4. Can I drink alcohol while taking Paxil?

It's advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Paxil, as alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of the medication, such as dizziness and difficulty concentrating.

5. Is Paxil safe for long-term use?

Long-term use of Paxil may be associated with an increased risk of developing dementia, according to observational studies. However, these studies do not prove causation but suggest a potential link.

6. What does Paxil do to you?

Paxil (paroxetine) is an SSRI antidepressant used to treat panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder by helping to restore the balance of serotonin in the brain.

7. Should I take Paxil at night?

Paxil is typically taken once a day, often at bedtime, with or without food. Taking it with food can help prevent stomach upset.


Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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