Indications
Paxil, commonly known by its generic name Paroxetine, is an antidepressant medication prescribed to treat a variety of mental health conditions. It belongs group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and can be taken orally in tablet form. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter associated with mood, sleep, and other functions.
Paroxetine is indicated for the treatment of depression, including major depressive disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Paxil is not a cure for depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders. While it may help to reduce symptoms. Paroxetine can improve your mood, appetite, sleep, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. Paroxetine also helps to decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the number of panic attacks.
Uses and Dosage
Paroxetine medication comes in the form of Tablet to be used orally through mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning. The Paxil tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken for the sake of getting the effectiveness of the medication.
The dosage of Paxil should be determined based on the individual's medical condition, response to treatment, age, and any other medications they may be taking.
For Depression treatment:
- IR: The typical starting dose is 20 mg by mouth once daily which can increase up to 50 mg per day.
- ER: The typical starting dose is 25 mg by mouth once daily which can increase up to 62.5 mg per day.
For Panic disorder Treatment:
- IR: The typical starting dose is 10 mg by mouth once daily which can increase up to 60 mg per day.
- ER: The typical starting dose is 12.5 mg by mouth once daily which can increase up to 75 mg per day.
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) Treatment:
- IR: The typical starting dose is 20 mg by mouth once daily which can increase up to 60 mg per day.
- ER: The typical starting dose is 12.5 mg by mouth once daily which can increase up to 37.5 mg per day.
For Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD):
- The typical starting dose is 20 mg by mouth once daily which can increase up to 60 mg per day.
General anxiety disorder (GAD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD):
- Starting dose for adults is 20 mg by mouth once daily and maximum dose is 50 mg per day.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD):
- Starting dose is 12.5 mg by mouth once daily. The maximum dose is 25 mg per day. This medication can be taken every day throughout your cycle or starting 2 weeks before your period through the first full day of your period.
You need to take Paxil as prescribed by your doctor. All instructions on the prescription label and any applicable medication guides or instruction sheets should be followed precisely. Your doctor may occasionally adjust the dose of the medication.
Side Effect
Common Paxil Side Effects of Paxil May Include:
- Decreased sex drive, impotence, abnormal ejaculation, or difficulty having an orgasm.
- Dry mouth
- Yawning
- Headache
- Infection
- Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Sweating, anxiety, or shaking
- Vision changes
- Weakness, drowsiness, dizziness, or tiredness
Serious Side Effects of Paroxetine Includes
- Being more talkative than usual
- Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Decreased need for sleep
- Easy bruising
- Unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum)
- Low levels of sodium in the body
- Racing thoughts
- Severe nervous system reaction
- Unusual bone pain or tenderness
- Unusual swelling or bruising
- Unusual risk-taking behavior
- Unusual feelings of extreme happiness or sadness
Form and Strength
Paxil and its generic alternative Paroxetine are available in the following forms and strengths:
Paxil: Tablet
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
- 30 mg
Paroxetine: Tablet
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
- 30 mg
- 40 mg
Caution
- Agitation, hallucinations, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of coordination, dizziness, warmth or tingly feeling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sweating, tremors, racing heartbeats, or a seizure (convulsions).
- MAO inhibitors, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine, should not be used within 14 days before or 14 days after Paxil is taken.
- Paxil should not be stopped without first consulting a doctor.
- Paxil should not be taken by pregnant women unless it is absolutely necessary. If a pregnant woman does take Paxil, she should be closely monitored by her doctor. There is a risk of birth defects associated with the use of Paxil during pregnancy.
- Paxil should not be used in combination with pimozide or thioridazine.
- When first taking an antidepressant, some young people may experience thoughts about suicide, so it is important to stay alert for changes in mood or symptoms and to report any new or worsening symptoms to a doctor.
- You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Paxil, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, you should not take any other medications without consulting your doctor, as Paxil may interact with other drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I take Paxil with food?
Paxil can be taken with or without food. It is important to take Paxil at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of medication in the body.
Is Paxil addictive?
Paxil is not considered to be addictive, but it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to not take more or less than the prescribed amount.
How long should I take Paxil?
The length of time that you should take Paxil will depend on the severity of your condition and the response to the medication. Typically, a course of Paxil treatment will last for several months. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best duration for your situation.
What if I forget to take a dose of Paxil?
If you forget to take a dose of Paxil, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
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