Paxil (generic name: paroxetine; brand names include: Pari / Pexep / Parolin / Seroxat) is one of the leading treatments for depression and anxiety disorders. Paxil is a member of a class of prescription drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that has proven in clinical trials to be both safe and effective with fewer side effects than other types of antidepressant medications.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Paxil for the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Paxil is indicated for the prevention of relapse and also recurrence of further depressive episodes.

With continued treatment, Paxil can help restore and maintain the balance of serotonin (a naturally occurring chemical in the brain) - which helps reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Paxil does not impair psychomotor function and does not potentiate the depressant effects of ethanol.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Recommendations

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Paxil exactly as directed.

It is usually taken once daily in the morning or evening, with or without food.

Take each dose with water. Swallow the controlled-release tablets (Paxil CR) whole, without crushing or chewing. They are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.

Try to take Paxil at the same time each day. Do not stop taking Paxil without first talking to your doctor. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually. It may take several weeks before you feel the full benefit of Paxil.

If you miss a dose of Paxil, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light.

Precautions

Before you start taking Paxil, tell your doctor if you:

are allergic to any medicines;
are taking another medicine for depression called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have been taking a MAOI within the last 14 days;or you are taking thioridazine;
have kidney or liver disease, diabetes, have ever had fits; have or have had bipolar disorder;
are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, are breast-feeding or wish to breast-feed.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: paroxetine.