Paroxetine

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Adco-Paroxetine, Aropax, Paxil, Serrapress

Drug group:

Antidepressant drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Paroxetine is used in the treatment of:

• Depression – it also helps to control of any associated anxiety
• Generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder
• Severe premenstrual syndrome

How does it work?

Paroxetine is a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant.

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Tablets/liquid, taken once daily, in the morning
• 10–40mg daily, dose varies according to condition treated and individual response

How quickly will it start to work?

Therapeutic response starts within 14 days, but full antidepressant effect may not be felt for 6 weeks, or even longer for anxiety disorders.

How long will the effects last?

Antidepressant effect may last for some time after prolonged use.

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug abruptly or without consulting your doctor.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Paroxetine is generally prescribed for at least 6 months.

• Withdrawal symptoms (including dizziness, electric shock sensations, anxiety, nausea, insomnia) may occur if the drug is not stopped gradually over at least 4 weeks
• Any person experiencing drowsiness, confusion, muscle cramps, or seizures should be monitored for low sodium levels in the blood
• Adolescents/teenagers should be monitored for suicidal thoughts and self-harm

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: nausea, diarrhoea, drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, sweating, tremor, weakness, sexual dysfunction in both sexes (lack of orgasm, male ejaculation problems)
• Less common: nervousness, anxiety, and agitation
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: suicidal thoughts

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart problems, bleeding disorders, glaucoma, personal/family history of mania/epilepsy, previous problems withdrawing from other antidepressants
• Other medicines: anticoagulants, antipsychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not generally recommended under 18 years
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary, increased risk of adverse effects
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause drowsiness
• Alcohol: Avoid, enhanced sedative effects