Paxil

Drug Name - Paxil (Paroxetine)

Paxil (Paroxetine) is a drug that is indicated in the treatment of depression.

Indications for Use

Paxil is a type of anti-depressant drugs that is used in the treatment of anxiety and depression that is believed to be caused due to alterations in the normal balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Instructions for Use

Paxil is available as a tablet for oral administration. It is taken once a day and food has no bearing on its absorption in the body. Take the tablet as instructed by the doctor and do not alter the dosage. Do not stop the tablet even if your symptoms have receded and you feel better. Consult the doctor if you wish to stop taking the drug as the physician will alter the dosage and advice gradual cessation of the drug. The drug needs to be taken routinely for several weeks to see good results.

Drug Category and Mechanism of Action

Paroxetine is an anti-depressant drug and belongs to a type of drug known as SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). This type of drug has an effect on the neurotransmitters like serotonin in the brain. It prevents the reuptake of serotonin into the nerve cells that has produced it thereby altering the level of serotonin in the brain to be taken by other nerve cells surrounding it. This reduces the imbalance of the neurotransmitters in the brain and the nerve cells causing reduction of symptoms of depression. Other examples of drugs that belong to SSRIs include Sertraline (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac).

If You Miss a Dose

In case you forget to take a dose, consume it as once you recollect that you missed a dose. In case the time when you remember is close to the next scheduled dose, avoid taking the dose you have missed and take the tablet only at the next scheduled time. Do not compensate for the missed dose by taking extra dose of medicine.

Storing Instructions

The drug is best stored at room temperature. Avoid direct contact with moisture or sunlight.

Safety Information

Inform the doctor of a previous history of any epilepsy, seizures, liver or kidney problems, manic disorders or history of suicidal tendencies if you are asked to take Paxil as the physician might need to alter dosage or monitor you closely during therapy.

Paxil is classified as FDA pregnancy classification C which means that the effect on the fetus is not clearly known. If you are pregnant and are taking Paxil, talk to the doctor about the possible effects the drug might have on your baby. Paxil is known to be passed through breast milk and cause problems to the baby. Avoid taking Paxil if you are nursing mother.

Possible Adverse Effects

Seek immediate medical help and cease taking Paxil if you experience any of the severe side effects such as severe allergic reactios, high or low blood pressure, irregularities of the heart, unusual bleeding or bruises, fevers or chills. It is more likely to see the occurrence of minor side effects like headache, nausea, tremors, anxiety, diarrhea, insomnia, nervousness, drying of mouth, decreased libido, appetite changes and weight changes, difficulties with orgasm, or impotence. Continue intake of the drug but be sure to mention these side effects to your doctor and seek advice. There may be the possibility of occurrence of other side effects that are not listed here. Be sure to talk to your doctor of any such side effects that persist or be a bother.