Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Paxil
Uses
This medication is used to treat depression or other mental/mood disorders.
Notes
It may take two to three weeks before the full effects of this medication are observed.
Continue taking this medication as prescribed.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light.
Do not store in the bathroom.
Paxil Paxil poses possible risk of birth
How To Use
Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed.
This is usually taken once a day in the morning.
Initially, your dose may be increased gradually to find the proper amount for you.
Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed.
Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, headache and blurred vision may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication.
Other side effects reported include dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, appetite changes, tiredness, tremor, nervousness, anxiety, change in sex drive or sexual ability, sweating or altered tastes.
If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop chest pain, rapid heart rate, vomiting, mental confusion, abnormal thinking, skin rash or breathing trouble while taking this medication.
This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision.
Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness and avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages which can aggravate these effects.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have a pre-existing kidney disease, liver disease, seizure disorder, thyroid disease, history of substance abuse or if you have any allergies.
This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially barbiturates, cimetidine, antidepressants, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), sumatriptan, dexfenfluramine, phenytoin, digoxin and warfarin.
If you are unsure of the contents or types of medications you take, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Avoid intake of alcohol which can aggravate side effects.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.