When working with Paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for depression, anxiety disorders and several other mental‑health conditions. Also known as Paxil, it works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce excessive worry.
SSRIs, a class of antidepressants that includes fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram share the same mechanism of boosting serotonin, but each drug varies in half‑life, side‑effect profile and approved indications. Depression, a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest and impaired daily functioning is one of the primary conditions Paroxetine treats, often alongside Anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety and panic disorder. Because Paroxetine is also sold under the brand name Paxil, you may see it referenced by either name in prescriptions or pharmacy labels.
Understanding how Paroxetine fits into a treatment plan involves three key aspects: dosage, side effects, and drug interactions. Typical starting doses for adults range from 10 mg to 20 mg once daily, with adjustments made based on therapeutic response and tolerability. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, and occasional sleep disturbances; most resolve within a few weeks as the body adapts. However, serious risks such as serotonin syndrome can arise when Paroxetine is combined with other serotonergic agents like mono‑amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or certain migraine medications. Paroxetine also requires a gradual taper when stopping to avoid withdrawal symptoms like irritability or flu‑like sensations.
Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each of these areas. Whether you’re looking for a side‑by‑side comparison of Paroxetine with other antidepressants, tips for managing specific side effects, or guidance on safe online purchases of generic versions, the posts below cover the most practical questions patients and caregivers ask every day.
A detailed comparison of Paroxetine (Pexep) with fluoxetine, sertraline, escitalopram, venlafaxine, and bupropion, covering uses, side effects, dosing, and when to choose each.