Paroxetine
Generic Name: Paroxetine
Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:
You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.
Uses & Medical Indications
Treatment of depression, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, PTSD
Major Depressive Disorder, GAD, PTSD, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
20 mg daily, usually in the morning
Not generally recommended for pediatric patients
Start at 10 mg daily; max 40 mg/day
50-60 mg/day (depending on indication)
Initial 10 mg/day if CrCl < 30 mL/min
Initial 10 mg/day in severe hepatic impairment
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Nausea, somnolence, sexual dysfunction, sweating, weight gain
Suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, bleeding risks, hyponatremia
Use with MAOIs, thioridazine, pimozide
Black box warning for suicidality in children/young adults. Highest risk of withdrawal syndrome among SSRIs.
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
MAOIs, NSAIDs, tramadol, tamoxifen, CYP2D6 substrates
N/A
May increase CNS depression
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Avoid in first trimester (cardiac malformations)
Present in human milk; use caution
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Do not stop abruptly. May take 4-6 weeks for full effect. Report worsening mood.
Take as soon as remembered. Skip if near next dose.
Mood changes, signs of bleeding, sodium levels in elderly
Related Medicines in Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Content for Paroxetine was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.