Paxil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder (social phobia) and generalized anxiety disorders (GAD).
Prescribed by U.S. doctors and dispensed by U.S. pharmacists.
Chemical Name:
PAROXETINE (pa-ROX-e-teen)
Drug Manufacturer:
BEECHAM
Common Uses:
Paxil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder (social phobia) and generalized anxiety disorders (GAD). SSRIs work by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain (neurotransmitters). Paroxetine may also be used to treat a variety of other conditions as determined by your doctor including severe premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), sexual problems in men (premature ejaculation), nerve problems associated with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), chronic headaches, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How to use Paxil:
Follow the directions for using Paxil provided by your doctor. Paxil may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. STORE Paxil at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. CONTINUE TO TAKE Paxil even if you feel better. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF Paxil and you are taking it in the morning, take it during the afternoon if you remember. If you do not remember until the next morning, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. IF YOU MISS A DOSE and you are taking 1 dose daily at bedtime and do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions:
DO NOT TAKE Paxil if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. AT LEAST 1 TO 2 WEEKS, and sometimes up to 4 weeks, may pass before Paxil reaches its full effect. Paxil IS NOT RECOMMENDED for use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT ALL PATIENTS, including those under 18, consult with their doctor before stopping Paxil. DO NOT SUDDENLY STOP TAKING Paxil without checking with your doctor. Side effects may occur if Paxil is suddenly stopped. Paxil MAY CAUSE drowsiness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Paxil. DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL while you are taking Paxil. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Paxil during pregnancy. Paxil IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using Paxil, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
Possible Side Effects:
SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include nervousness, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dry mouth, sweating, dizziness, lightheadedness, or changes in sexual function. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience mental or mood changes, seizures, or unusual bleeding or bruising. FOR MEN: If you experience a prolonged, painful erection, stop using Paxil and seek immediate medical attention or permanent problems could occur. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to Paxil is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
