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What is Paxil? |
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Drug Uses
Belonging to the medication group referred to as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (or SSRIs), Paxil can significantly affect chemicals within the patient’s brain which tend to become unbalanced. As such, it is primarily administered as part of the therapy for many disorders, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, obsession-compulsion, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
How to Take Paxil
Paxil is for oral administration, normally taken once a day, on an empty stomach or following a meal. It is necessary to take the medication regularly; continue in using it even if you don’t feel any symptoms of the disorder. Avoid taking doses which exceed that which is instructed. If you have been taking Paxil for a prolonged period, do not discontinue intake without directions to do so; your physician may gradually lower your dose to avoid any unpleasant side effects associated with immediate withdrawal. Its benefits are normally obtained after a month; inform your doctor if there are no signs of improvement in your symptoms after such time.
Drug Precautions
Avoid alcohol intake, as this can add to the intensity of the adverse effects of Paxil. The same is also applicable for other medications which have drowsing effects; cold and pain management medications, depression and anxiety drugs, muscle relaxants, and drugs for seizure can enhance the drowsy after effects of Paxil. If you have a current kidney or liver problem, seizure or manic disorders, or suicidal tendency, you may not be allowed to take Paxil without an adjustment in dosage or special treatment monitoring; your doctor will decide the appropriate treatment program for your case.
Drug Interactions
Drugs for pain management, fever, and inflammation can interact with Paxil, including aspirin, naproxen, etodolac, indomethacin, piroxicam, and ibufren. Taking these medications simultaneously with Paxil can cause easy bruising or bleeding. The following medicines can also inhibit or influence the potency of Paxil: blood thinners; medications for heart rhythm; other antidepressant drugs like citalopram, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, sertraline, and amitriptyline; phenothiazines like chlorpromazine and mesoridazine; and almotriptan, rizatriptan, or frovatriptan.
Side Effects
Get immediate medical aid if you encounter the following severe side effects: an allergic reaction; an abnormal pulse or heart rate; blood pressure abnormalities; an unexplained bleeding or bruising; or symptoms of the flu such as fever and chills. Other side effects are more likely to be experienced, but are less severe, including headaches; appetite and weight deviations; tremors, agitation, or anxiety; a parched mouth and throat; nausea and diarrhea; a sleep disorder; and sudden problems with your sexual drive.
Missed Dose
Fulfill a missed intake as soon as you can, as long as the next dose is not nearly due. Skip the dose otherwise and take the next one according to your intake schedule.
Overdose
The indications of a possible overdose of Paxil may include seizures or convulsions, sleepiness, nausea with vomiting, enlarged pupils, tremors, anxiety, and hyperactivity. Call for medical help in the presence of such symptoms.
Storage
Store Paxil at maintained room temperatures, away from excessive heat and moisture.
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