Paxil

Drug General Information

Paxil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This drug restores the natural amount of serotonin in your brain, which helps treat mood problems. It can be also used for the treatment of panic disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder.

It is not recommended to use Paxil if you ever had an allergic reaction to any of its components, if you were taking or are taking MAOIs, selegiline, St. John's wort, fenfluramine derivatives, nefazodone, pimozide, sibutramine, thioridazine, or tryptophan

Before you start taking Paxil make sure you inform your doctor about any particular medical conditions – allergies, family history of bipolar disorder, history of seizures, heart problems, liver problems, severe kidney problems, stomach or bowel bleeding, narrow-angle glaucoma, diabetes, metabolism problems, pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Medicine taking

Follow the instructions on the label or those provided by your doctor. Paxil is indicated for oral administration. Take Paxil as prescribed by your doctor with plenty of water, without chewing or crushing the tablet.

The missed dose is to be taken immediately as soon as you remember, the remaining doses are to be taken at regular intervals. However, if according to the schedule the next dose is to be taken within a short period of time, it’s recommended to skip the missed dose and take the rest of the days’ doses as specified.

Precautions

Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in children and teenagers. Before taking this drug or giving it to your child, make sure that the benefits are greater than the risks involved.

Do not suddenly stop taking this drug without consulting your doctor as this might cause serious side effects.

This drug might cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision; it’s not recommended to get engaged into any hazardous activities during the period of treatment. The use of alcohol might lessen your ability to react quickly. It is recommended to stand up and sit down carefully in the mornings during the treatment.

In case of taking any of the following medicines contact your doctor to learn about its possible interactions with Paxil: anorexiants, cimetidine, fenfluramine derivatives, linezolid, lithium, MAOIs , metoclopramide, nefazodone, selegiline, sibutramine, St. John's wort, tramadol, trazodone, or tryptophan, anticoagulants, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, diuretics, antiarrhythmics, H₁ antagonists or phenothiazines fluoxetine, pimozide, procyclidine, risperidone, theophylline, or tricyclic antidepressants.

For women: Paxil might cause defects in unborn babies. This drug also passes into mother’s milk. In case you are pregnant, breast-feeding or might conceive during the period of treatment consult your doctor in order to discuss all possible risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

While taking Paxil you might experience certain common side effects. You can continue taking this drug and consult your doctor in case of experiencing such symptoms as aanxiety, blurred vision, constipation, decreased sexual desire, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, gas, increased sweating, increased urination, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, stomach upset, trouble concentrating, trouble sleeping, unusual skin sensations, weakness, yawning. Consult your physician if experiencing any side effects that appear to be bothersome.

In case of experiencing any of the serious side effects listed below stop taking Paxil and immediately consult you physician: severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), bizarre behavior, black or bloody stools, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, panic attacks, aggressiveness, persistent or severe ringing in the ears, persistent, painful erection, seizures, significant weight loss, stomach pain, suicidal thoughts or attempts, tremor, unusual bruising or bleeding, mod swings, vision changes.

Storage

This drug is to be stored in a hermetic container at room temperature (59° F to 77° F) away from direct light, heat or moisture. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use the drug past its expiry date.

Overdose

The main symptoms of Paxil overdose are the following: coma, confusion, dilated pupils, fainting, fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, inability to urinate, seizures, severe muscle pain; severe dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, or vomiting, tremor, and jaundice. In case of the drug overdose immediately contact the doctor.

Additional Information

Do not share this drug with those to whom it was not prescribed. Use this drug only to treat specific medical conditions as prescribed by your doctor. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

If you are currently taking other drugs and are not sure about their interaction with Paxil consult your doctor to learn about it.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for your personal use only and might not embrace all uses, instructions, precautions and adverse drug interaction. This information is general and not intended to be completely relied upon. We disclaim any responsibility for the credibility and dependability of the information provided and any effects caused by its use, including those related to any harm to a person or property, in case such effects take place. This information does not provide the reader with any kind of warranty.