Paroxetine is a prescription medicine. It is primarily used for the treatment of Depression. Paroxetine also has some secondary and off-label uses. These are listed below.
The correct dosage of Paroxetine depends on the patient's age, gender, and medical history. Besides the medical condition it is advised for, the route of administration also plays an important role in determining the correct drug dosage. This information has been provided in detail in the dosage section.
Besides the aforementioned side effects, there are other adverse effects of Paroxetine as well, which are listed below. These side effects of Paroxetine are usually temporary and subside with the completion of treatment. However, if these continue for a longer time, consult your doctor right away.
Paroxetine's effect during pregnancy is Severe and Severe while nursing. In addition, Paroxetine's effects on the liver, heart and kidney are discussed below in the Paroxetine related warnings section.
Paroxetine is contraindicated in people with pre-existing medical conditions like Depression as it can result in adverse effects. Other contraindications of Paroxetine have been discussed in the sections ahead.
Drug interactions for Paroxetine have been reported in the medical literature. A complete list of these interactions is given below.
In addition to the above precautions for Paroxetine, it is important to know that it is not safe while driving, and is not habit-forming.
Paroxetine is used to treat the following -
Main Benefits
Other Benefits
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
| Age Group | Dosage |
| Adult |
|
| Geriatric |
|
Based on research, the following side effects have been observed when Paroxetine is used -
Moderate
Mild
Is the use of Paroxetine safe for pregnant women?
Paroxetine has many dangerous side effects in pregnant women. If you are pregnant, do not consume Paroxetine without medical advice.
Is the use of Paroxetine safe during breastfeeding?
Women who are breastfeeding, may experience serious side effects after taking Paroxetine. So it is adviced to consult the doctor before using it.
What is the effect of Paroxetine on the Kidneys?
Paroxetine rarely affects the kidneys.
What is the effect of Paroxetine on the Liver?
Paroxetine is rarely harmful for the liver.
What is the effect of Paroxetine on the Heart?
Paroxetine is rarely harmful for the heart.
Paroxetine should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Severe
Moderate
Mild
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Paroxetine unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Paroxetine habit forming or addictive?
Paroxetine does not cause addiction.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
After taking Paroxetine, you should not drive or work on any heavy machine, as Paroxetine can make you drowsy.
Is it safe?
Paroxetine is safe but it is important to consult a doctor before taking it.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
Yes, Paroxetine is useful in treating mental disorders.
Interaction between Food and Paroxetine
Taking Paroxetine with food does not harm your health.
Interaction between Alcohol and Paroxetine
Consumption of alcohol and Paroxetine together may have severe effects on your health.
No, Paroxetine is not an antipsychotic drug. It contains paroxetine which belongs to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used for the treatment of depression (major depressive disorder) and anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder). Paroxetine is also used in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
No, Paroxetine is not addictive. It has not been reported to cause addiction among those who are taking this drug.
Patients who are suffering from major depressive disorder may experience a change in suicidal behavior, and self-inflicting thought whether they are taking Paroxetine or not and this risk may remain till significant remission of depression. If you are experiencing mood fluctuations, life-threatening, distorted thoughts after taking this drug, consult your doctor immediately without any further delay.
Yes, Paroxetine has been reported to cause weight fluctuation (weight gain or loss). It is a known side effect of this drug. However, if you experience any unusual sudden weight gain or loss after taking this drug, then consult it with your doctor without further delay.
No, Paroxetine and amitriptyline cannot be taken together. Because this combination may increase serious side effects such as dry mouth, sedation, blurred vision, and urine retention. Before taking these two medicines together you must consult your doctor.
This medicine data has been created by -
References
April Hazard Vallerand, Cynthia A. Sanoski. [link]. Sixteenth Edition. Philadelphia, China: F. A. Davis Company; 2019: Page No 986-988
KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 461
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Paxil® (paroxetine hydrochloride)
