• Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
  • Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
Skip to content

How to Get a Paxil (Paroxetine) Prescription: Everything You Need to Know

Published: January 25, 2023 Updated: January 25, 2023
Published: 01/25/2023 Updated: 01/25/2023
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

PharmD, RPh
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD
  • What Is Paxil (Paroxetine)?What Is Paxil?
  • Side Effects of PaxilPaxil Side Effects
  • Drug Interactions With PaxilDrug Interactions
  • Do I Need a Paxil Prescription?Do I Need a Prescription?
  • How to Get a Paxil PrescriptionHow to Get a Prescription
  • Who Can Prescribe Paxil? Who Can Prescribe?
  • How to Get a Paxil Prescription OnlineOnline Prescriptions
  • What If I Can’t Get Prescribed Paxil?Alternative Options
  • Do Over-the-Counter Alternatives Exist?Over-the-Counter Options
  • Questions to Ask Your Health Team About How to Get PaxilQuestion to Ask
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

PharmD, RPh
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD

Paxil is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Your doctor may prescribe this as a part of your treatment plan, depending on factors such as your age and overall health condition. There are both in-person and online psychiatry options available to determine if Paxil could be beneficial and safe for you. Discuss the risks and side effects associated with your doctor.

Boxed Warning: Paroxetine (Paxil)

Boxed Warning: Paroxetine (Paxil) – Risk of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Certain People
Paroxetine, the active ingredient in Paxil, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Paroxetine can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with paroxetine and any other medications before starting treatment.

What Is Paxil (Paroxetine)?

Paxil (paroxetine) is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and various anxiety disorders.1 Paxil belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of medications that regulates serotonin levels in the brain, working to improve one’s mood and emotional well-being. Paxil comes in extended-release tablets and suspension forms, with a typical dosage being between 10 and 60 mg daily.1 In some cases, a doctor may prescribe Paxil for off-label use to treat other conditions.

Paxil is FDA-approved for the treatment of:1

  • Major depressive disorder (MDD)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Panic disorder (PD)
  • Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Practitioners may prescribe Paxil off-label for the treatment of:5

  • Dysthymia (milder, long-lasting form of depression)
  • Body dysmorphic disorder
  • Postpartum depression (PPD)
  • Premature ejaculation
  • Separation anxiety

Side Effects of Paxil

Paxil may result in mild to severe side effects depending on how the drug interacts with a person’s body and their age. These reactions occur as one’s body adjusts to the medication, but can persist for some individuals. It may take between four and six weeks before Paxil begins to improve a person’s symptoms.2

Side effects of Paxil may include:1

  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Sweating
  • Dry mouth
  • Sleeping problems
  • Dizziness
  • Ejaculation problems
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Tremors
  • Blurred vision

If you experience blurred vision, seek immediate attention from a doctor.

Drug Interactions With Paxil

Combining Paxil with other medications or substances can be very dangerous to your health. Mixing these substances can result in sudden death. Therefore, it is essential to discuss these risks with your doctor in order to continue taking Paxil safely.

Substances and medications that may have dangerous interactions with Paxil include:1

  • MAOI inhibitors
  • Thioridazine
  • Pimozide
  • Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Other SSRIs
  • Alcohol
  • Blood thinners
  • Migraine medication
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Water pills

Do I Need a Paxil Prescription?

Before a Paxil prescription is provided, a doctor will review your symptoms to determine if this medication is a good fit for you. They will also review your physical and mental health history. It is important to disclose any and all of your current conditions in order to become aware of any associated risks.

Both Paxil and psychotherapy are effective in relieving the symptoms of depression. However, your doctor may prescribe medication instead of or in conjunction to therapy if you are not experiencing symptom relief.3

Some of the symptoms that might indicate a diagnosis of depression include:

  • Low mood
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Appetite changes
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Lack of interest or motivation
  • Fatigue
  • Poor concentration and decision-making skills
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Frequent panic attacks

How to Get a Paxil Prescription

If you are interested in Paxil and its uses, you can make an appointment with your doctor in order to learn more about the associated risks and side effects. Your doctor will assess several factors, including your health and age, to determine if Paxil is the right medication for you.

When looking to get prescribed Paxil, be sure to follow these steps:

  • Make an appointment with your physician: Before a prescription can be issued, an appointment with a licensed physician must be made and attended.
  • Talk with your provider about your condition: Be sure to inform your doctor about any and all of your symptoms. This will help them determine the best course of action.
  • Receive a diagnosis: Upon reviewing your symptoms, a doctor can provide you with an accurate diagnosis, inform you of treatment options, and offer tips for coping.
  • Consider costs and insurance coverage: Paxil medication can be costly, especially if you do not have insurance. Consider your options before fulfilling your prescription.

Who Can Prescribe Paxil?

Only certain medical professionals licensed by regulating agencies can prescribe antidepressant medications like Paxil. This is based on their training and understanding of mental health conditions.

Healthcare practitioners who can prescribe Paxil include:4

  • Primary care providers
  • Medical doctors
  • Physician assistants
  • Psychiatrists
  • Nurse practitioners
  • Some clinical psychologists
  • Licensed physician assistants

How to Get a Paxil Prescription Online

Online psychiatry is a suitable solution if you are unable to physically meet with a doctor. Telepsychiatry allows you to meet a provider over the internet, regardless of your location. Similar to in-person options, it includes services like screening, assessments, medication management, refills, and crisis support.

Many people have found online psychiatry beneficial because of its convenience and accessibility. You can search for providers within your area or expand your search. This is especially helpful for those who have busy schedules or live in areas without adequate mental health resources.

What If I Can’t Get Prescribed Paxil?

If you are unable to receive a Paxil prescription, avoid “doctor shopping” or seeking approval from another physician. Do not ask friends or family for the medication. Paxil should be taken as prescribed by a doctor, as misuse can result in severe adverse reactions.

There are other antidepressant alternatives to Paxil that may be prescribed as a part of your treatment. Medications such as Celexa (citalopram), Cymbalta (duloxetine), or Lexapro (escitalopram) work similarly to Paxil. Before considering a medication, it is important to consult a doctor to determine if it is suitable for you.

Do Over-the-Counter Alternatives Exist?

Antidepressant medications are only available by prescription. However, some over-the-counter (OTC) remedies and supplements may help relieve mild symptoms. Exercise caution while taking OTC medications and inform your doctor of any substances you are considering.

OTC medications and natural supplements include:5

  • St. John’s Wort
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Vitamin B6
  • 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)

Questions to Ask Your Health Team About How to Get Paxil

Before starting Paxil, be sure to discuss possible side effects or risks with your doctor. Certain physical conditions may influence the severity of your reaction to the medication. Asking the right questions can help prevent or limit the risk of experiencing adverse effects.

Questions to ask your care team about Paxil include:

  • What are the side effects of Paxil?
  • Are there any alternatives to Paxil?
  • How long will it take Paxil to start working?
  • What are the best online psychiatry options?
  • Is it safe if I use over-the-counter alternatives?
  • How long will Paxil’s side effects last?
  • If my symptoms worsen while on Paxil medication, what should I do?
  • Should I be worried about mixing Paxil with other medications or substances?

Final Thoughts

Paxil can help relieve symptoms of depression or anxiety. However, before starting your medication, it is important to talk with your doctor about the risks associated with Paxil. You and your doctor will determine the right approach to managing your symptoms. Exercise caution when taking Paxil by following your doctor’s guidance and recommendations.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for marketing by the companies mentioned below.

Virtual Psychiatry

Talkiatry – Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with top-rated psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment within a week. Free Assessment

Hims / Hers – If you’re living with anxiety or depression, finding the right medication match may make all the difference. Get FDA approved medication prescribed by your dedicated Hims / Hers Healthcare Provider and delivered right to your door. Plans start at $25 per month (first month). Get Started

Medication + Therapy

Brightside Health – Together, medication and therapy can help you feel like yourself, faster. Brightside Health treatment plans start at $95 per month. United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna accepted. Following a free online evaluation and receiving a prescription, you can get FDA approved medications delivered to your door. Free Assessment

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by Brightside, Hims / Hers, and  Talkiatry.

For Further Reading

  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (“MAT”) For Opioid Use Disorder
  • MAT/MOUD Advocacy Toolkit – Legal Action Center
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – SAMHSAmedication-assisted-treatment
  • Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder Before, During, and After
  • Addiction Statistics and Facts
  • Best Addiction Recovery Blogs
  • Best Sobriety Apps
5 sources

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • PAXIL- paroxetine hydrochloride suspension PAXIL– paroxetine hydrochloride tablet, film coated. (2022). DailyMed. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=584ace29-6e40-432f-950f-ab7e98653d32

  • Common questions about paroxetine. (2022). NHS. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/paroxetine/common-questions-about-paroxetine/

  • How do I choose between medication and therapy? (2017). APA. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/medication-or-therapy

  • Zhang, P., & Patel, P. (2022). Practitioners And Prescriptive Authority. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574557/

  • Paxil Alternatives. (2022). ATMC. Retrieved from https://www.alternativetomeds.com/blog/paxil-alternatives

Recent Articles

Effexor (Venlafaxine)_ Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More
Effexor (Venlafaxine): Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More
Effexor is commonly prescribed for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Taking the medication may...
';
How to Get a Celexa (Citalopram) Prescription_ Everything You Need to Know
How to Get a Celexa (Citalopram) Prescription: Everything You Need to Know
Celexa is a medication used to treat depression. It may be prescribed by a doctor depending on an individual’s...
';
Lexapro vs. Zoloft_ Choosing Which Is Right for You
Lexapro vs. Zoloft: Choosing Which Is Right for You
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are medications that can be used to treat symptoms of depression and anxiety. Taking...
';
Zoloft _ Alcohol_ Understanding the Risks
Zoloft & Alcohol: Understanding the Risks
It is contraindicated to mix Zoloft and alcohol, as alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and...
';
Effexor (Venlafaxine) Withdrawal_ Symptoms_ Duration_ _ How to Cope
Effexor (Venlafaxine) Withdrawal: Symptoms, Duration, & How to Cope
Effexor (venlafaxine) is only available via prescription and should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Stopping the medication...
';
Lexapro vs. Prozac
Lexapro vs. Prozac: Choosing Which Is Right for You
Both Lexapro and Prozac are effective medications for relieving symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. They...
';
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

PharmD, RPh
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD
  • What Is Paxil (Paroxetine)?What Is Paxil?
  • Side Effects of PaxilPaxil Side Effects
  • Drug Interactions With PaxilDrug Interactions
  • Do I Need a Paxil Prescription?Do I Need a Prescription?
  • How to Get a Paxil PrescriptionHow to Get a Prescription
  • Who Can Prescribe Paxil? Who Can Prescribe?
  • How to Get a Paxil Prescription OnlineOnline Prescriptions
  • What If I Can’t Get Prescribed Paxil?Alternative Options
  • Do Over-the-Counter Alternatives Exist?Over-the-Counter Options
  • Questions to Ask Your Health Team About How to Get PaxilQuestion to Ask
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
If you are in need of immediate medical help:
Medical
Emergency
911
Suicide Hotline
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • No Surprises Act
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
988
Click For More Crisis Hotlines
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
811
See more Crisis Hotlines
here
logo
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.
Choosing Therapy Logo
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit Cookie Settings to provide controlled consent. Cookie settings ACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

We use cookies to facilitate website functionality. Also, we use third-party cookies to track your website behavior and target advertising. These cookies are stored in your browser only with your consent, and you have the choice of opting out.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non Necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Save & Accept