Brand Name: Paxil (not available in generic)

Manufacturer: SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals

Description: Paroxetine is an antidepressant in the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) class. Its metabolites are primarily inactive and cleared quickly. Paroxetine and its active metabolites have an elimination half life of 24 hours. Steady state blood levels are reached in about ten days. Its bioavailability is not affected by food or antacids.

Indications and Uses: Paroxetine is indicated for the treatment of depression. Recently (May, 1996) it received FDA approval for two new indications: Panic Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Contraindications, Warnings, and Precautions: Paroxetine is contraindicated in patients also taking MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) or L-tryptophan. It should be used cautiously with warfarin. Because Paroxetine is highly bound to plasma protein, concomitant use with other highly-bound drugs should be undertaken with caution. It is excreted in breast milk and, therefore, should be used with caution. Safety in pregnant women has not yet been established.

Adverse Reactions: Possible common side effects are nausea and drowsiness. Other possible side effects are asthenia (muscular weakness), dizziness, insomnia, sweating, ejaculatory disturbance in men and anorgasmia in women. 

Dosing Range: The recommended starting dose is 20 mg per day (single daily dose). Maximum dose is 50 mg per day.

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© 2000 Red Oak Psychiatry Associates, P.A.    Updated 11/26/2007