Uses
Paroxetine is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive
compulsive disorders (OCD), social anxiety disorder (social phobia),
and generalized anxiety disorder. This medication works by helping
to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
This medication 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).
Directions
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily in the morning,
with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is
based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is important
to continue taking this medication as prescribed even if you feel
well. Also, do not stop taking this medication without consulting
your doctor. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit
of this drug takes effect.
Side efects
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 this drug 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.
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. This drug
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 this product in the elderly because
they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication
should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss
the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug passes into breast
milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding
while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before
breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications taken with this product 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 this medication. Consult
your doctor or pharmacist for additional information. This drug 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.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: irregular
heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or lightheadedness.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose, use 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 to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30
degrees C) away from light and moisture.
Paxil
