paroxetine at a glance
Medicine class
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant
Licensed uses
Depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalised anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder
Taking the tablet
Take with food and swallow rather than chew
Stopping treatment
Do not stop suddenly; withdrawal symptoms commonly occur when paroxetine is reduced or stopped abruptly
What is paroxetine used for?
The selected UK tablet is licensed for adults with:
Major depressive episodes
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia
Social anxiety disorder or social phobia
Generalised anxiety disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder
How does paroxetine work?
Paroxetine selectively inhibits neuronal reuptake of serotonin, increasing serotonin signalling between brain cells. Its clinical effects in depression and anxiety-related disorders are thought to arise from this action, although symptom improvement is not immediate.
paroxetine preparations and strengths
Tablet
Route: Oral
Strengths: 20 mg, 30 mg
How to take paroxetine
Follow the prescription label and leaflet supplied with the product.
Take the tablet with food to reduce nausea.
Swallow the tablet rather than chewing it.
Avoid alcohol because it may increase unwanted effects.
Do not stop paroxetine suddenly; discuss gradual reduction with the prescriber.
paroxetine side effects
Common or expected effects
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sexual problems, including reduced libido
- Sleepiness, dizziness, weakness or agitation
- Difficulty sleeping or abnormal dreams
- Headache or tremor
- Diarrhoea, constipation or dry mouth
- Sweating
- Blurred vision
- Weight change
Get urgent medical advice
- Suicidal thoughts or marked worsening of mental health
- Serotonin syndrome: agitation or confusion with sweating, shaking, muscle twitching or a fast heartbeat
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling or breathing difficulty
- Seizure
- Unexplained bruising, significant bleeding or blood in stools
- A severe blistering or peeling skin reaction
- Mania, including unusually elevated mood, energy or risk-taking
paroxetine in pregnancy
Paroxetine can be used in pregnancy when clinically necessary, following an individual discussion of benefits, alternatives and possible risks. Some studies suggest a small increase in fetal heart defects with early-pregnancy exposure, while use later in pregnancy can cause temporary newborn adaptation symptoms. Do not stop it abruptly if pregnant; contact the prescriber, midwife or specialist.
paroxetine while breastfeeding
Paroxetine passes into breast milk in very small amounts and is one of the preferred SSRIs for a healthy, full-term breastfed infant. As a precaution, monitor the baby for unusual drowsiness, irritability, constipation, poor feeding or inadequate weight gain and discuss concerns with a healthcare professional.
paroxetine interactions
Check prescribed, non-prescription and herbal products before starting paroxetine. Important interactions include:
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, including moclobemide and linezolid
The combination is generally contraindicated because it can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome; specific separation periods are required.
Thioridazine or pimozide
Concurrent use is contraindicated because paroxetine can raise their concentrations and increase serious heart-rhythm risk.
Serotonergic medicines, including tramadol, buprenorphine, triptans, lithium and other antidepressants
Combined use increases the risk of serotonin syndrome and requires clinical review and monitoring.
Common questions about paroxetine
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What conditions is paroxetine licensed to treat?
The selected UK tablet is licensed for major depressive episodes, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalised anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
How long does paroxetine take to work?
Some people notice early changes after a week or two, but meaningful improvement may take several weeks.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.