PAROXETINE - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (pa-ROX-e-teen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Paxil
GENERIC NAME(S): paroxetine HCl
Uses
USES: Paroxetine is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It works by helping to restore the balance of a certain natural substance (serotonin) in the brain. Paroxetine is known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This medication may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. It may decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the number of panic attacks. It may also reduce the urge to perform repeated tasks (compulsions such as hand-washing, counting, and checking) that interfere with daily living.
How to use PAROXETINE - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking paroxetine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning. Taking this medication with food may decrease nausea. If this medication makes you sleepy during the day, then talk to your doctor about taking it in the evening. The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may start you at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. The manufacturer directs not to chew/crush the tablet before taking it. However, many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be chewed/crushed. Follow your doctor's directions on how to take this medication. If you are taking paroxetine for premenstrual problems, your doctor may direct you to take it every day of the month or just for the 2 weeks before your period through the first full day of your period. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as mood swings, headache, tiredness, sleep changes, and brief feelings similar to electric shock. To prevent these symptoms while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away. It may take up to several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
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Faq for PAROXETINE - ORAL
Paroxetine is an antidepressant medication that is used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Paroxetine belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate mood.
Some common side effects of paroxetine include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, sweating, and sexual problems.
It may take several weeks for paroxetine to reach its full effect. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not see immediate improvement in your symptoms.
It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking paroxetine. Alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
Paroxetine is generally not recommended during pregnancy, as it can increase the risk of certain birth defects. However, the decision to use the medication during pregnancy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.
If you miss a dose of paroxetine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Paroxetine is not considered to be physically addictive. However, some people may experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking the medication. It is recommended to gradually reduce the dose under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Paroxetine may interact with certain medications, including other antidepressants, blood thinners, and medications that affect liver enzymes. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to minimize the risk of any potential interactions.
Warning
WARNING: Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. Therefore, it is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition. Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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