Drug Uses

PAROXETINE is very useful in treating depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and it works by restoring the balance of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain, which helps to improve certain mood problems.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

You may choose to take PAROXETINE with a meal to avoid an upset stomach or without one.


It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.

Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.


Drug Class and Mechanism

PAROXETINE falls under selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and it works by restoring the balance of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain, which helps to improve certain mood problems.


Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store PAROXETINE at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using PAROXETINE if you are allergic to any ingredient in it.

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.

Your condition might be monitored or the dosage might be modified to suit you if you are taking a fenfluramine derivative (e.g., dexfenfluramine), nefazodone, pimozide, a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) (e.g., venlafaxine), sibutramine, thioridazine, or tryptophan.
If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using PAROXETINE to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using PAROXETINE as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.

Side Effects

Most medications have some kind of side effects associated with them. The commonest of these side effects are temporary and mild and fade away without any special attention.

These include anxiety; blurred vision; constipation; decreased sexual desire or ability; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; gas; increased sweating; increased urination; loss of appetite; nausea; nervousness; stomach upset; trouble concentrating; trouble sleeping; unusual skin sensations; weakness; yawning.

However, in some cases, these mild side effects may persist or become bothersome. In such cases, seek medical attention.

Also, in some rare cases, it may lead to severe side effects like severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bizarre behavior; black or bloody stools; chest pain; exaggerated reflexes; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or sore throat; hallucinations; loss of coordination; new or worsening agitation, panic attacks, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, irritability, hostility, exaggerated feeling of well-being, restlessness, or inability to sit still; persistent or severe ringing in the ears; persistent, painful erection; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; severe or persistent anxiety or trouble sleeping; significant weight loss; stomach pain; suicidal thoughts or attempts; tremor; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual or severe mental or mood changes; vision changes; worsening of depression.

Seek medical attention if you notice any of these side effects.

Side effects that are not listed here may also occur.