Paroxetine is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorders, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and generalised anxiety disorder.

Therapeutic Category

Paroxetine: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

How Paroxetine works

Paroxetine works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin (a chemical that acts as a messenger between nerve cells of brain and throughout the body) and increases the levels of serotonin in the brain thus improves mood and physical symptoms of depression and also relieves symptoms of panic disorder, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Common side effects of Paroxetine

nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, diarrhoea or constipation
dizziness or shaky (tremors)
somnolence (excess sleepiness)
asthenia (muscle weakness)
change in sex drive or sexual function
left-sided chest pain, pressure, or fullness, dizziness, unsteady walking pattern (high cholesterol levels)
lack of appetite
insomnia
abnormal dreams
headache
difficulty in concentrating
agitation, weakness
blurred vision
yawning
weight gain
sweating

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

Unusual bruising or bleeding including vomiting blood or blood in stools
Difficult urination
Fits (seizures)
Signs of akathisia such as feeling of restlessness, inability to sit or stand still
Signs of low sodium like feeling tired, weak or confused and have achy, stiff or uncoordinated muscles
Allergic reaction like red and lumpy skin rash, swelling of the eyelids, face, lips, mouth or tongue, shortness of breath, difficult in swallowing and feel weak or lightheaded resulting in collapse or loss of consciousness
Signs of serotonin syndrome include confusion, restlessness, sweating, shaking, shivering, hallucinations (strange visions or sounds), sudden jerks of the muscles, fast heartbeat
Signs of acute glaucoma such as severe headache, eye pain, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, eye redness
Signs of stevens johnson syndrome such as widespread rash with blisters and peeling skin, particularly around the mouth, nose, eyes and genitals
Signs of toxic epiderma necrolysis such as widespread rash with blisters and skin peeling on much of the body surface
Signs of liver problems like yellowing of skin, eyes (jaundice)
in case of accidental overdosage

Health Tips for Paroxetine

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Paroxetine as it can increase the risk of side effects
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and prioritize good sleep habits for supporting overall well-being and to complement the effects of Paroxetine
Seek emotional support from loved ones, support groups, or counselling services. Openly communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have throughout your treatment
Paroxetine is often used for a specific duration to treat certain conditions. It is important to complete the full course of treatment or as prescribed by the doctor, even if you start feeling better before the treatment duration ends