Paroxetine

Paroxetine treats depression and several anxiety-related conditions, including panic disorder, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and PMDD, depending on the formulation. Low-dose Brisdelle is for menopausal hot flashes, not psychiatric treatment.

It slows serotonin reuptake. Changes in signaling begin early, while improvement in mood or anxiety usually develops over weeks.

Sleep, energy, or appetite may change before mood improves. Benefit usually builds over several weeks; some conditions need a longer trial at a useful dose.

Track the symptoms you are treating and how you manage daily activities. Keep follow-up appointments. Schedule an earlier appointment if your mood gets worse.

• Take at the prescribed time; standard psychiatric formulations are commonly taken in the morning. Discuss timing if sleepy or unable to sleep.
• Swallow controlled-release tablets whole. Shake liquid and measure accurately.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. Then skip it. Do not double a dose.
• Avoid abrupt stopping. Paroxetine can cause substantial withdrawal symptoms, so reductions should be individualized.

• Nausea, constipation, or dry mouth
• Drowsiness, sweating, or dizziness
• Sexual side effects
• Weight gain with ongoing treatment

Some side effects resolve with time; others may require a change of medication. Discuss persistent or bothersome side effects with your provider.

Antidepressants can increase suicidal thoughts in people under 25. Watch for changes in mood or behavior at any age, especially when starting treatment or changing a dose.

Tell your provider about emotional numbness, unusual agitation, or a reduced need for sleep with increased energy. These changes may call for a treatment adjustment.

Report unusual bruising or bleeding, severe headache, confusion, or marked weakness. SSRIs can increase bleeding risk and sometimes lower blood sodium.

For a suspected overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately, even if you feel well. Call 911 for a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or inability to wake.

Discuss any history of mania or bipolar disorder, seizures, heart disease, glaucoma, and kidney or liver problems.

Discuss pregnancy, pregnancy plans, and breastfeeding with your provider. Treatment decisions should consider both the medication and the condition being treated.

Discuss pregnancy plans before changes whenever possible; paroxetine has particular pregnancy considerations. Do not suddenly stop needed treatment.

Review all your medications with your provider, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Have new medications checked before taking them.

Paroxetine strongly inhibits CYP2D6 and can interfere with tamoxifen or raise levels of other medicines.

Do not combine with MAOIs, pimozide, or thioridazine. Other serotonergic medicines increase serotonin-syndrome risk; NSAIDs and anticoagulants add bleeding risk.

A regular dose time and refill reminder can help prevent missed doses.

Bring a few specific observations to appointments: sleep, motivation, anxiety, and activities that have become easier or harder.

Keep medication in its labeled container, away from excess heat and moisture and out of reach of children and pets. Do not share it. Ask a pharmacy about disposal of unused medication.