Paxil
Developed to address major depressive disorder to alleviate feelings of sadness and anxiety.
- Category
- Antidepressants
- Active ingredient
- Paroxetine
- Supply
- Pharmacy
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Film-coated tablet
- Strengths
- 10 · 20 · 30 · 40mg
Paxil details
- Alternative names
- Seroxat
- Therapeutic class
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)
- Pharmacological class
- SSRI
- Known off-label uses
- premature ejaculation
- Minor side effects
- nausea; drowsiness; dry mouth
- Moderate side effects
- insomnia; sexual dysfunction; weight gain
- Dosage forms
- Film-coated tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
- Manufacturer
- GSK
- Onset Time
- 1–2 weeks
- Duration
- 24 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store in a cool, dry place.
- Drug interactions
- alcohol; monoamine oxidase inhibitors; st. john's wort
- Age restrictions
- Not recommended for children.
Contraindications
hypersensitivity to paroxetine; concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors; concurrent use of pimozide
Precautions and warnings
avoid abrupt discontinuation; may impair ability to drive; monitor for changes in mood
Serious side effects
serotonin syndrome, requires immediate medical attention; suicidal ideation, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
Developed to address major depressive disorder to alleviate feelings of sadness and anxiety.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which increases the availability of this neurotransmitter to improve mood and emotional regulation.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Use under medical supervision only if benefits outweigh risks. Breastfeeding: Excreted in breast milk; consult your doctor.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Paxil
Paxil is a well-known brand of paroxetine, used to manage Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Obsessive-compulsive Disorder. This active ingredient is also marketed under the brand name Seroxat. It is supplied as a tablet in strengths of 10, 20, 30 and 40mg. Manufactured by GSK, this medication provides support for these identified mental health conditions.
Paxil availability in Asia
Paxil is registered across 13 markets, including Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia, with availability also in Taiwan, South Korea and Japan. Generic paroxetine, much of it made in India, is far more affordable than the original brand, providing a practical option for expats and people living in regions far from a well-stocked pharmacy. As this medication is used for complex conditions, it is best used under a doctor’s care.