Paroxetine: View Uses, Side Effects and Medicines

Paroxetine

INFORMATION ABOUT PAROXETINE

Paroxetine Uses

Paroxetine is used in the treatment of depression, Panic disorder and anxiety disorder.

How Paroxetine works

Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain. This improves mood and physical symptoms of depression and also relieves symptoms of panic and obsessive disorders.

Common side effects of Paroxetine

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common

Dryness in mouth, Dizziness, Tremors, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Delayed ejaculation, Decreased libido, Headache, Weakness, Diaphoresis, Gastrointestinal intolerance, Drowsiness

CONTENT DETAILS

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Last updated

13 Jun 2023 | 11:25 AM (UTC)

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Medicine brands for Paroxetine

Paxidep

₹196 to ₹359

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd

3 variant(s)

Pexep

₹227 to ₹478

Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Alkem Laboratories Ltd

4 variant(s)

Paradise

₹212 to ₹326

Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Arinna Lifescience Pvt Ltd

Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Expert advice for Paroxetine

It can take 2-3 weeks for Paroxetine to start working.
Do not stop treatment suddenly as this may cause upset stomach, flu-like withdrawal symptoms and sleep disturbance.
If your doctor asks you to stop Paroxetine, you should reduce the dose slowly over 4 weeks.
Avoid consuming alcohol when taking Paroxetine, as it may cause excessive drowsiness and calmness.
The addiction/dependence potential of Paroxetine is very less.

Frequently asked questions for Paroxetine

Q. After how many days of taking Paroxetine will I start feeling better?

You may start to see an improvement in your symptoms after 1-2 weeks of starting the treatment. In case you do not see any improvement, do not stop the medicine and consult your doctor. It may take around 4-6 weeks to see the full benefits of the medicine.

Q. I feel that my symptoms have worsened after having started taking Paroxetine. Can I stop it on my own or do I need to consult the doctor?

No, do not stop taking Paroxetine abruptly, without consulting your doctor. This is a common problem with Paroxetine that initially you may feel that your symptoms have worsened but the benefits start appearing after 1-2 weeks. If the worsening does not improve even after 1-2 weeks, you must consult your doctor.

Q. Can Paroxetine affect my sex life?

Yes, Paroxetine use may affect your sex life. It can cause decreased sexual desire and inability to reach orgasm in both men and women. Additionally, men may even experience abnormal erection and ejaculation.

Q. What is the effect of Paroxetine on children?

Paroxetine should not be used in children under 18 years of age. The reason being, patients under 18 have an increased risk of experiencing side effects such as suicidal thoughts, aggression, oppositional behavior and anger when they take Paroxetine. If your doctor has prescribed Paroxetine for your child and you are worried about these side effects, discuss it with your doctor.

Q. I have been taking tamoxifen for breast cancer. Can I take Paroxetine with it?

No, you should not take Paroxetine if you are receiving tamoxifen. Tamoxifen often causes hot flashes (episodes of feeling extremely hot), which can be treated with Paroxetine. But Paroxetine may reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen and can lead to recurrence of breast cancer.

Q. Do I need to be careful while taking Paroxetine if I am a diabetic?

Yes, you need to be careful while taking this medicine if you are a diabetic. Paroxetine may alter your blood sugar levels and your dose of insulin or antidiabetic medicines may need adjustment. Talk to your doctor regarding this and keep a regular check on your blood sugar levels.