Paroxetine

Filed under: Anti Depressant Medication

Displayed: Paroxetine Seroxat 20mg

Paroxetine (Paxil in USA/Canada) belongs to a class of drugs known as selective seratonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI’s). An antidepressant, paroxetine is used in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Most of the time anxiety often accompanies depression. This medication helps control that anxiety. Paroxetine is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, panic disorders and obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD’s). These drugs work on neurotransmitters which carry messages between cells.

When serotonin is released from nerve cells in the brain it helps to lighten the mood of the individual. On re-absorption the serotonin no longer has an effect. Paroxetine works by blocking the re-uptake of the neruotransmitter serotonin, this raises the level of serotonin prolonging the enlightened mood. In this way paroxetine helps relieve depression, panic and fear. It is less sedating than other antidepressants and it may take several weeks before the full effects of this medication works.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Antidepressant danger of overdose – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug YES.
• Available as generic – NO. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol may increase the sedative effect of Paroxetine.

Side Effects

You may if you have been prescribed paroxetine suffer one or more of these side effects in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Dizziness, Drowsiness, Nausea, Sexual Dysfunction, Sweating.
Rare: Agitation, Anxiety, Convulsions, Itching, Joint Pain, Loss Of Appetite, Nervousness, Rash, Weight Loss, Hives.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using paroxetine It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

Paroxetine could become habit-forming. As with all drugs stopping this drug suddenly after prolonged use could cause severe withdrawal symptoms. such symptoms would include electric shock sensations, dizziness, nausea, and insomnia. However, these symptoms would not be expected to last past a week or two.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Paroxetine can cause drowsiness so it would be wise to avoid such activities untill you become aware of how this drug affects you. Alcohol is another area to be aware of as alcohol can increase the sedative effect of this drug.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

As like many drugs paroxetine has not been established for its safety in pregnancy. The drug also passes into the breast milk. You should discuss both of these issues with your doctor.

Paroxetine is classified as a pregnancy Category D medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Pregnancy Category D… There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking.This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative preparations.

Over 60′s & Children

It may be necessary to prescribe a reduced dose for the over-sixties as there is more likelihood of suffering side effects. Paroxetine would not be recommended for infants or children under the age of 18yrs.

Overdose

Unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. However, if a large overdoses has been taken seek immediate medical advice.

Other Medication Reactions

Paroxetine may increase the toxicity of drugs such as tricyclic antidepressants. There should be a lapse of 14 days between paroxetine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s) being taken. If taken at the same time, or within the 14 day period serious reactions may occur. Paroxetine may increase the effects of anticoagulant drugs. Drugs that affect the breakdown of others in the liver may alter blood levels of paroxetine. paroxetine increases plasma concentration of galantamine (used to treatment mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease and various other memory impairments). All drugs that have a sedative effect may increase the sedative effects of paroxetine.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

Do not stop taking paroxetine without consulting with your doctor first. If you stop abruptly there is a possibilty of withdrawal symptoms.

Effect Of Medication

Some benefits will be felt within 7 to 14 days of treatment. Full benefits may not be felt for some 3 to 4 weeks. The duration of this drug may be up to 24 hours

Storage and Safety

• Keep paroxetine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take paroxetine if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely.

If paroxetine has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

Natural Remedy

Depression can be a natural response to a period of crisis/emotional upset. Sleeping habits often become upset during this period the sufferer getting either to little or to much. If you find yourself in this corner then the Aromatherapist would recommend, Citrus Essences, Clary Sage, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Sandal Wood. Consistent depression, Chronic depression needs professional help. Arrange to see your GP he may be able to put you in touch with a counsellor or a psychotherapist. Mild depression can be helped by aromatherapy…