*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
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.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance
Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
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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Talkiatry – Safe, virtual mental health care from doctors who take insurance. Most psychiatry visits cost patients $30 or less* Take a short assessment.
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
*Includes copayment, deductible, coinsurance, and $0 Visits. Excludes no shows. **On average. Actual appointment times vary by state and individual patient.
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, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy 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
Therapy for Anxiety & Medication Management
Brightside Health – develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1 on 1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start Free Assessment
Talk Therapy
BetterHelp – Get support and guidance from a licensed therapist. BetterHelp has over 30,000 therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $65 per week and is FSA/HSA eligible by most providers. Take a Free Online Assessment and get matched with the right therapist for you. Take free assessment
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Online Anxiety Test
A few questions from Talkiatry can help you understand your symptoms and give you a recommendation for what to do next.
Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.