Paxil
Paxil (Paroxetine) is used to treat depression, panic
attacks, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), social anxiety disorder
(social phobia), and generalized anxiety disorder. Paxil works
by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
Paxil CR is a controlled (timed) release form of Paxil.
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. Please consult your
healthcare professional before using this or any other prescription or
non-prescription medication.
About Paxil
Uses of Paxil
Paxil is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive
compulsive disorders (OCD), social anxiety disorder (social phobia), and
generalized anxiety disorder. Paxil works by helping to restore the balance
of certain natural chemicals in the brain. Paxil 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).
Paxil Directions
Take Paxil by mouth usually once daily in the morning, with
or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage of Paxil is based
on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is important to continue
taking Paxil as prescribed even if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking
Paxil without consulting your doctor. It may take up to several weeks before
the full benefit of Paxil takes effect.
Paxil 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 Paxil 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.
Paxil 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. Paxil
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 Paxil in the elderly because they may be
more sensitive to the effects of Paxil. Paxil should be used only when
clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with
your doctor. Paxil passes into breast milk. Because of the potential
risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using Paxil is not recommended.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Paxil Drug Interactions
Certain medications taken with Paxil 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 Paxil.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information. Paxil 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.
Missed Dose of Paxil
If you miss a dose of Paxil, take 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 of Paxil
to catch up.
Paxil Overdose
If overdose of Paxil is suspected, contact your local
poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of
overdose may include: irregular heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or
lightheadedness.
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