The
following information is a summary about Paxil.
It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Paxil USES
Paxilis used to treat depression, panic attacks,
obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), social anxiety
disorder (social phobia), and generalized anxiety
disorder. This medication works by helping to restore
the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
Paxil has also been used to treat a severe form
of premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric
disorder- PMDD), sexual function problems in men
(premature ejaculation), nerve problems associated
with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), chronic headaches,
or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Paxil DIRECTIONS
Take Paxil by mouth usually once daily in the
morning, with or without food; or as directed by
your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical
condition and response to therapy. It is important
to continue taking this medication as prescribed
even if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking this
medication without consulting your doctor. It may
take up to several weeks before the full benefit
of Paxil takes effect.
Paxil SIDE EFFECTS
Nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhea, trouble
sleeping, constipation, or dry mouth may occur. If
any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your
doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if
any of these serious side effects occur: loss of
appetite, unusual or severe mental/mood changes,
increased sweating/flushing, unusual fatigue, uncontrolled
movements (tremor), decreased interest in sex. Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely
but serious side effects occur: blurred vision, changes
in sexual ability, painful and/or prolonged erection,
change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor immediately
if any of these highly unlikely but very serious
side effects occur: fainting, irregular heartbeat,
muscle pain, trouble swallowing, unusual swelling,
seizures, easy bruising or bleeding, tingling or
numbness of the hands/feet. An allergic reaction
to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical
attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction
include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness,
trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not
listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Paxil PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially
of: liver problems, kidney problems, seizures, heart
problems, other mental/mood disorders (e.g., bipolar
disorder), thyroid problems, any allergies. Paxil
may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging
in activities requiring alertness such as driving
or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution
is advised when using this product in the elderly
because they may be more sensitive to the effects
of the drug. This medication should be used only
when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the
risks and benefits with your doctor. Paxil passes
into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to
the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug
is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Paxil DRUG INTERACTIONS
Certain medications taken with Paxil could result
in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid
taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid,
linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine,
selegiline, tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks, and
avoid taking thioridazine within 5 weeks, before
or after treatment with this medication. Consult
your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.
This drug is not recommended for use with: weight
loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine), thioridazine,
terfenadine, astemizole. Ask your doctor or pharmacist
for more details. Tell your doctor of all prescription
and nonprescription medication you may use, especially:
other SSRI antidepressants (e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine),
nefazodone, trazodone, tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine
drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tricyclic
antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline),
cimetidine, digoxin, flecainide, propafenone, clozapine,
lithium, tryptophan, "blood thinners" (e.g.,
warfarin), theophylline, herbal/natural products
(e.g., melatonin, ayahuasca, St John's wort). Tell
your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness
such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers,
anti- anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain
relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines
(e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure
drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain
antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Report other
drugs which affect the heart rhythm (QTc prolongation),
such as: dofetilide, pimozide, sotalol, quinidine,
procainamide, sparfloxacin, "water pills" (diuretics
such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide). Ask your
doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do not start
or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
Paxil OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately.
Paxil NOTES
Do not share Paxil with others. Laboratory and/or
medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Paxil as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the
missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Paxil STORAGE
Store Paxil at room temperature between 36 and
77 degrees F (2 -25 degrees C) away from light and
moisture.
