PaxilŽ
Important Note:
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the
expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of Paxil is
safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using Paxil.
Paxil Uses:
Paroxetine is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive
disorders (OCD), social anxiety disorder (social phobia), and generalized
anxiety disorder. Paxil works by helping to restore the balance of certain
natural chemicals in the brain.
Other Paxil Uses:
PAxil has also been used to treat a severe form of premenstrual syndrome
(premenstrual dysphoric disorder- PMDD), sexual function problems in men
(premature ejaculation), nerve problems associated with diabetes (diabetic
neuropathy), chronic headaches, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How to Use Paxil:
Take Paxil by mouth usually once daily in the morning, with or without food;
or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition
and response to therapy. It is important to continue taking Paxil as
prescribed even if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking Paxil without
consulting your doctor. It may take up to several weeks before the full
benefit of Paxil takes effect.
Paxil Side Effects:
Nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, constipation, or
dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your
doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side
effects occur: loss of appetite, unusual or severe mental/mood changes,
increased sweating/flushing, unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements
(tremor), decreased interest in sex. Tell your doctor immediately if any of
these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blurred vision, changes in
sexual ability, painful and/or prolonged erection, change in amount of
urine. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very
serious side effects occur: fainting, irregular heartbeat, muscle pain,
trouble swallowing, unusual swelling, seizures, easy bruising or bleeding,
tingling or numbness of the hands/feet. An allergic reaction to Paxil is
unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an
allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness,
trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
Paxil Precautions:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, kidney
problems, seizures, heart problems, other mental/mood disorders (e.g.,
bipolar disorder), thyroid problems, any allergies. Paxil may make you dizzy
or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as
driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised
when using Paxil in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the
effects of the drug. Paxil should be used only when clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Paxil passes
into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant,
breast-feeding while using Paxil is not recommended. Consult your doctor
before breast-feeding.
Paxil Drug Interactions:
Certain medications taken with Paxil could result in serious, even fatal,
drug interactions. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone,
isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline,
tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks, and avoid taking thioridazine within 5
weeks, before or after treatment with this medication. Consult your doctor
or pharmacist for additional information. Paxil is not recommended for use
with: weight loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine), thioridazine,
terfenadine, astemizole. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may
use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants (e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine),
nefazodone, trazodone, tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine drugs
(e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g.,
amitriptyline, nortriptyline), cimetidine, digoxin, flecainide, propafenone,
clozapine, lithium, tryptophan, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin),
theophylline, herbal/natural products (e.g., melatonin, ayahuasca, St John's
wort). Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as:
medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g.,
diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines
(e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g.,
carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g.,
diphenhydramine). Report other drugs which affect the heart rhythm (QTc
prolongation), such as: dofetilide, pimozide, sotalol, quinidine,
procainamide, sparfloxacin, "water pills" (diuretics such as furosemide or
hydrochlorothiazide). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do not
start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Paxil Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: irregular
heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or lightheadedness.
Paxil Notes:
Do not share Paxil with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be
performed to monitor your progress.
Missed Dose of Paxil:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time
of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing
schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Paxil Storage:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C)
away from light and moisture.
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