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Paroxetine

Antidepressant

Brand names:

Paxil®, Paxil CR®

Often used for:

Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

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What is paroxetine?

Paroxetine (Paxil®) is a type of antidepressant medication called a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.

Paroxetine works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a natural substance in the brain that may help regulate mood.

This medicine may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home.

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May be given as a tablet by mouth

 
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May be given as a capsule by mouth

 
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May be given as a liquid by mouth

 
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Possible side effects

  • Headache
  • Increased sweating
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite
  • Indigestion
  • Nausea
  • Dry mouth
  • Feeling sleepy, tired, or weak
  • Dizziness
  • Sleep problems
  • Tremors (shaking of the body)
  • Weight gain
  • Gas
  • Feeling nervous or restless
  • Back pain
  • Yawning
  • Eye problems, such as eye pain, change in vision, or redness
  • Growth problems
  • Fertility problems

Not all patients who take paroxetine will have these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Report any symptoms or side effects to your health care provider or pharmacist. 

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your health care provider or pharmacist. 

  • It may take several weeks to see the full effects of this medicine. Contact your health care provider or pharmacist if symptoms get worse or do not improve.
  • Watch for changes in your child’s mood or mental health, such as worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, irritability, panic attacks, and trouble sleeping.
  • Seek medical help right away if your child has any suicidal thoughts or actions or signs of self-harm.
  • Do not stop taking this medicine without talking to a health care provider.
  • This medicine may make your child dizzy or drowsy. Do not let your child do anything that could be dangerous until you see how this medicine affects them.
  • This medicine may cause weight gain or affect your child’s growth. Your child should have regular physical exams and growth checks.
  • This medicine can increase the risk of eye problems. Let your care team know if your child has eye pain or change in eyesight.
  • Paroxetine can affect your child’s ability to get pregnant or father a child. Talk to your doctor about the risk of fertility problems.
  • It is important that patients tell the care team if they are sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Paroxetine at home

  • Give this medicine in the morning at the same time every day.
  • This medicine can be taken with or without food. Take with food if stomach upset occurs. Taking the medicine with meals may lessen stomach problems.
  • Tablets and capsules: Take as directed. Swallow tablets whole unless otherwise instructed. Do not crush, chew, or break extended release or coated tablets.
  • Liquid: Shake well before use. Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine.
  • In case of a missed dose, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
  • Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
  • Do not use the medicine past the expiration date.
  • Follow instructions for safe handling, storage, and disposal.

Learn more about paroxetine

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: July 2024