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  • Mental Health Issues
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    • Depression
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    • Personality Disorders
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  • Relationships
    • Dating
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    • Sex & Intimacy
    • Infidelity
    • Relationships 101
    • Best Online Couples Counseling Services
  • Wellness
    • Anger
    • Burnout
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    • Sleep
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    • Mindfulness
    • Yoga
  • Therapy
    • Starting Therapy
    • Types of Therapy
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    • Online Therapy Reviews & Guides
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    • Anxiety Medication
    • Depression Medication
    • ADHD Medication
    • Best Online Psychiatrist Options
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  • What Is Paxil?What Is Paxil?
  • Forms It Comes InForms It Comes In
  • Associated RisksAssociated Risks
  • Side EffectsSide Effects
  • InteractionsInteractions
  • What If I Overdose?What If I Overdose?
  • What If I Miss a Dose?What If I Miss a Dose?
  • Questions to AskQuestions to Ask
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources

Paxil (Paroxetine): Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More

Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Author: Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves is an accomplished pharmacist and expert in behavioral health pharmacology. Her areas of expertise include patient education, medication cost-reduction, and patient-centered treatment.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Headshot of Heidi Moawad, MD

Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD Licensed medical reviewer

Headshot of Heidi Moawad, MD

Heidi Moawad MD

Heidi Moawad, MD is a neurologist with 20+ years of experience focusing on
mental health disorders, behavioral health issues, neurological disease, migraines, pain, stroke, cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, and more.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Published: January 20, 2023
  • What Is Paxil?What Is Paxil?
  • Forms It Comes InForms It Comes In
  • Associated RisksAssociated Risks
  • Side EffectsSide Effects
  • InteractionsInteractions
  • What If I Overdose?What If I Overdose?
  • What If I Miss a Dose?What If I Miss a Dose?
  • Questions to AskQuestions to Ask
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

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

Heidi Moawad

MD
Brand name:
Paxil
Generic name:
Paroxetine
Is the generic available:
Yes
Class of drug:
SSRI
Boxed warning:
Yes
FDA-approved treatments:
Major Depression, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, PTSD
Common Off-label Uses (non-FDA approved):
Premature Ejaculation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Common alternatives:

Celexa, Zoloft, Prozac

View Drug Class, FDA-Approved Uses, Off-Label Uses, and more

*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.

Paxil is a medication used in the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and other mental health conditions. Paxil works to regulate users’ serotonin levels, leading to symptom improvements. However, taking the drug may result in side effects that range from mild to severe.

If you’re considering Paxil, online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health can connect you with a provider quickly. They offer assessments and can provide a prescription if they determine Paxil or another medication may help your symptoms.

Boxed Warning: Paroxetine (Paxil) – Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people

Click here to open and close the box warning container.

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 use in the treatment of depression and certain anxiety disorders, among other conditions.1 Paxil belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of drugs that regulates serotonin levels in the brain. Blocking serotonin reuptake creates a balance of this neurotransmitter, resulting in improved mood and emotional wellbeing. However, users may experience adverse side effects as their bodies adjust to the drug.

Paxil may be prescribed in the treatment of:2

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

In some cases, a physician may consider prescribing Paxil for off-label use in the treatment of premature ejaculation or irritable bowel syndrome.

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How Is Paxil Administered?

Paxil is intended to be taken once daily in the morning, with or without food. The specific Paxil dose will vary depending on the condition being treated and the person’s age, but the standard is 20 mg daily.

Paxil comes in the form of tablets, suspension (liquid), and extended-release (long-acting) tablets.2 Your doctor may determine the best delivery method depending on one’s age, health condition, and severity of symptoms. Paxil should be taken as prescribed by a doctor to help prevent associated risks and side effects. If you do not experience symptom relief, your prescriber may adjust your dosage or suggest an alternative.

Dosages of Paxil may include:2

  • 10 mg (starting dose for PD)
  • 20 mg (starting dose for MDD, OCD, PTSD, SAD, GAD)
  • 50 mg (maximum dose for MDD, PTSD, GAD)
  • 60 mg (maximum dose for OCD, PD, SAD)

Associated Risks of Taking Paxil

Taking Paxil may result in side effects that can range in severity depending on how the drug interacts with a person’s body. It is important to disclose any current medications or pre-existing medical conditions with a doctor before taking the medication. Specific populations, including children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and young adults, are at an increased risk for experiencing adverse reactions to Paxil.

Before taking Paxil, alert your doctor if you are or have:3,4,5

  • Pregnant
  • Breastfeeding
  • Using other substances
  • Seizures
  • Bleeding problems
  • Glaucoma
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Heart disease

Side Effects of Paxil

Side effects of Paxil are generally mild, but can be severe depending on how the drug interacts with one’s body, their age, and their overall health. Before starting Paxil, have a conversation with your physician to better understand these risks. Your doctor will decide if different treatment is needed and may suggest alternatives, such as Celexa or Zoloft.

Common side effects of Paxil may include:2

  • Drowsiness
  • Weight changes
  • Dry  mouth
  • Sexual problems
  • Sweating
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Indigestion
  • Appetite issues

Severe side effects of Paxil that may require immediate attention include:2

  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Seizures
  • Manic episodes
  • Bleeding problems
  • Angle-closure glaucoma
  • Priapism

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Interactions With Paxil

Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Paxil can change how Paxil works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Life-threatening side effects may occur if Paxil is taken alongside other substances or medications. The interaction of these different chemical compounds in the body is detrimental to your health, as this can lead to overdose and sudden death. Patients taking Paxil should not consume alcohol.

Substances that might cause interactions with Paxil include:2

  • Orap (pimozide)
  • Mellaril (thioridazine)
  • Migraine medications
  • Other SSRIs
  • MAO inhibitors
  • Blood thinners

What to Do If You Overdose

Overdosing on Paxil may occur when large amounts are consumed or are taken alongside other antidepressants or substances. Long-term Paxil use can result in physical dependence. Taking more Paxil than prescribed or a suicide attempt using Paxil may result in overdose. If you have overdosed on Paxil, seek immediate medical assistance.2

What If I Miss a Dose of Paxil?

If you miss a dose of Paxil, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is closer to the time to take your next dose, wait and skip the missed dose before returning to your recommended prescription routine. It is important to stick to your Paxil schedule, as this helps prevent the risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Paxil

Before considering Paxil, a doctor will help you understand if it is or is not a suitable medication for you. If it is not, they can recommend a safe alternative.

Questions to ask your care team before taking Paxil include:

  • Is it safe to take Paxil with my other medications?
  • Will my insurance cover Paxil?
  • Does my medical history increase the risk for side effects?
  • How long do side effects last?
  • When should I seek immediate medical attention for side effects?
  • How often should I see you for checkups while taking Paxil?
  • Should I let my therapist know I am taking this medication?
  • What should I do if I want to stop taking Paxil?
  • Can I consume alcohol while taking Paxil?
  • What should I do if Paxil does not work for me?
  • How does Paxil compare to Prozac or other antidepressants?

Final Thoughts

Paxil is an effective medication used to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. Taking this medication may result in side effects and users should be aware of any associated risks before beginning a Paxil prescription. Consult with your doctor to better understand these possibilities in order to ensure your physical and mental wellbeing.

Additional Resources

To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, ChoosingTherapy.com has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. ChoosingTherapy.com is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.

Virtual Psychiatry

Circle Medical – Anxiety and Depression Treatment. Meet with an online doctor today! All prescriptions are based on necessity determined by a medical professional. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. No membership or hidden fees. Same day appointments. Visit Circle Medical

Talkiatry – Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with expert psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Free Assessment

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Sources

ChoosingTherapy.com 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

  • Paroxetine: MedlinePlus drug information. (2021). MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698032.html

  • Drugs and Lactation Database. (2022).Paroxetine – Drugs and lactation database. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501190

  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking Paroxetine. (2022). NHS. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/paroxetine/pregnancy-breastfeeding-and-fertility-while-taking-paroxetine/

  • Correia, P., et al. (2018). Negative myoclonus secondary to paroxetine intake. BMJ case reports, 2018, bcr2018224586. https://doi.org/10.1136/bcr-2018-224586

Show more Click here to open the article sources container.

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