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Paxil® is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), social anxiety disorder (SAD) and generalized anxiety disorder. This medication works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
Paxil®
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for,
the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug
is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional
before using this drug.
Uses
Paroxetine is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive
disorders (OCD), social anxiety disorder (social phobia), and generalized
anxiety disorder. This medication works by helping to restore the balance
of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
Other Uses
This medication has also been used to treat a severe form of premenstrual
syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder- PMDD), sexual function problems
in men (premature ejaculation), nerve problems associated with diabetes
(diabetic neuropathy), chronic headaches, or post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD).
How to Use
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily in the morning, with
or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on
your medical condition and response to therapy. It is important to continue
taking this medication as prescribed even if you feel well. Also, do not
stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. It may take
up to several weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Side Effects
Nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, constipation,
or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify
your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious
side effects occur: loss of appetite, unusual or severe mental/mood changes,
increased sweating/flushing, unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor),
decreased interest in sex. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these
unlikely but serious side effects occur: blurred vision, changes in sexual
ability, painful and/or prolonged erection, change in amount of urine.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very
serious side effects occur: fainting, irregular heartbeat, muscle pain,
trouble swallowing, unusual swelling, seizures, easy bruising or bleeding,
tingling or numbness of the hands/feet. An allergic reaction to this drug
is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms
of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness,
trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems,
kidney problems, seizures, heart problems, other mental/mood disorders
(e.g., bipolar disorder), thyroid problems, any allergies. This drug may
make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring
alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Caution is advised when using this product in the elderly because they
may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should
be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and
benefits with your doctor. This drug passes into breast milk. Because
of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug
is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications taken with this product could result in serious, even
fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone,
isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline,
tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks, and avoid taking thioridazine within
5 weeks, before or after treatment with this medication. Consult your
doctor or pharmacist for additional information. This drug is not recommended
for use with: weight loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine), thioridazine,
terfenadine, astemizole. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you
may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants (e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine),
nefazodone, trazodone, tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine drugs
(e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline,
nortriptyline), cimetidine, digoxin, flecainide, propafenone, clozapine,
lithium, tryptophan, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), theophylline,
herbal/natural products (e.g., melatonin, ayahuasca, St John's wort).
Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as:
medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g.,
diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines
(e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g.,
carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine).
Report other drugs which affect the heart rhythm (QTc prolongation), such
as: dofetilide, pimozide, sotalol, quinidine, procainamide, sparfloxacin,
"water pills" (diuretics such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide). Ask
your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: irregular
heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or lightheadedness.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests
may be performed to monitor your progress.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the
time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing
schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees
C) away from light and moisture.
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