>Paroxetine (systemic)<


Commonly used brand names: Paxil

Description: Paroxetine is used to treat mental depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder.

Paroxetine belongs to a group of medicines known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These medicines are thought to work by increasing the activity of the chemical serotonin in the brain. This medicine is only available with your doctor’s prescription.

 
Precautions: It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to allow for changes in your dose and to help reduce any side effects.

Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to reduce the amount you are taking before stopping completely.

Do not take paroxetine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor in the past 2 weeks. Do not start taking an monoamine oxidase inhibitor within 2 weeks of stopping paroxetine. If you do, you may develop confusion, agitation, restlessness, stomach or intestinal symptoms, sudden high body temperature, extremely high blood pressure, severe convulsions, or the serotonin syndrome.

Paroxetine has not been shown to add to the effects of alcohol. However, use of alcohol is not recommended in patients who are taking paroxetine.

Paroxetine may cause some people to become drowsy or have blurred vision. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert or able to see clearly.