Paxil (paroxetine): what you need to know
Paxil is a brand name for paroxetine, an SSRI often prescribed for depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic attacks, and PTSD. If you or someone you care for is starting Paxil, this page gives practical, easy-to-use facts: how it’s usually taken, what side effects to expect, key safety points, and tips to avoid problems.
Quick facts & dosing
Paroxetine works by boosting serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Doctors usually start adults on a low dose and raise it only if needed. Typical starting doses are around 10–20 mg once daily. Many people feel better on 20–40 mg daily. Some patients need higher doses, but follow your prescriber’s instructions — do not increase on your own.
Paxil comes as immediate-release and controlled-release (CR) tablets. CR may cause fewer morning side effects for some people. Take it at the same time each day, with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose — don’t double up.
Safety tips & common side effects
Common side effects include nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth, sweating, constipation, and sexual changes (lower libido or difficulty reaching orgasm). These often ease after 1–2 weeks. If side effects are severe or don’t improve, call your prescriber.
Stopping Paxil suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms: dizziness, electric-shock sensations, anxiety, irritability, and trouble sleeping. Always taper off under medical supervision.
Watch for worsening mood or new suicidal thoughts, especially in people under 25. Check in with your doctor or seek urgent help if this happens.
Avoid combining Paxil with MAO inhibitors, other strong serotonergic drugs, or certain herbal supplements like high-dose St. John’s wort without medical advice — the risk of serotonin syndrome is real and can be dangerous. Paroxetine can increase bleeding risk when taken with NSAIDs, aspirin, or blood thinners, so mention all meds and supplements to your provider. It’s also a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor; this can affect drugs like tamoxifen and certain beta-blockers.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding need careful planning. Paxil has been linked to a small increased risk of birth defects and newborn withdrawal; discuss alternatives and timing with your clinician if you’re planning pregnancy or are pregnant.
Practical tips: take Paxil at night if it makes you sleepy, or in morning if it wakes you. Avoid alcohol until you know how it affects you. Don’t drive until you understand side effects like dizziness. If switching antidepressants, your doctor will usually recommend a slow cross‑taper to reduce risk of withdrawal or serotonin issues.
Questions? Your pharmacist and prescribing clinician are the best first contacts. Keep a short symptom diary for the first 4–8 weeks to track benefits and side effects — that helps your prescriber fine-tune the plan.
