Drug Uses

Paxil is a medicine from a newer group of antidepressant drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Chemical imbalance in the brain may cause depression and anxiety disorder. Among these chemicals is serotonin which assists the sending electrical signals between the nerve cells. This happens as the nerve cell that sends the signal releases serotonin which travels to the nerve cell that receives the signal. The receiver may absorb the signal or may sends it back to the original sender.

How Taken

Paxil is available in the form of tablets that are taken orally. It is recommended that the medicine is taken once a day with or without food. Do not take more tables than prescribed and do not take the medicine more often than instructed. Do not discontinue the usage of Paxil even if you feel better or without a consultation with your doctor, and especially if you have been using the medicine for a long time. Your doctor may gradually reduce your dosage. You should take the medicine for a period of few weeks to obtain full effects.

Warnings/Precautions

Before you take Paxil you should inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, seizures or epilepsy, or a manic disorder or suicidal thoughts. If you suffer from any of the above-mentioned conditions, you may not been able to use Paxil or your dosage may have to be adjusted, or you may have to be monitored during the treatment. Paxil falls into the FDA category C which means that it is not clear if is harmful for a fetus. Talk to your doctor before using Paxil in case you are pregnant. Also, consult your doctor before taking the medicine if you are breast feeding because Paxil passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Discontinue the usage of Paxil and search for medical help if you experience any of the following serious adverse effects: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); an irregular heartbeat or pulse; low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness); high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); unusual bleeding or bruising; or fever or chills. Other less serious adverse effects may occur. Consult your doctor but do not stop using Paxil if you have headache; tremor, nervousness, or anxiety; nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight; sleepiness or insomnia; or decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm. You may also experience other adverse effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor if you experience some other side effects.

Storage

Paxil should be stored at a controlled room temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Overdose

Immediately search for medical help if you suspect an overdose. An overdose of Paxil may be manifested by nausea, vomiting, tremor, seizures, agitation, drowsiness, hyperactivity, and enlarged pupils.

More Information

Be cautious when you drive, operate machinery or perform any other dangerous activity because Paxil may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid the above-mentioned activities if you experience drowsiness or dizziness. Be cautious with alcohol consummation because alcohol may enhance the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Paxil.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.