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Home > Drug Category > Antidepressant Drugs > Paxil CR and Equivalent

Paxil CR Information

Paxil CR (Paroxetine HCl) is used to treat conditions like depression. Depression is a common and treatable mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms that significantly affect daily functioning. Depression is believed to be associated with imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, including serotonin. Paxil CR is also used to treat panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Paroxetine HCL work by affecting the balance of serotonin in the brain.

Paxil CR Side Effects

The most common side effects of Paxil CR may include nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, sweating, constipation, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Sexual problems, such as reduced libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, or erectile dysfunction;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat;
• Signs of serotonin syndrome, such as sweating, confusion, dizziness, restlessness, fast heartbeat, and seizures;
• Suicidal thoughts or actions;
• Unexplained bleeding

Paxil CR Precautions

Do not use Paxil CR if you are allergic to Paroxetine HCl or other ingredients in this medication. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have a history of mania, bleeding disorders, seizure disorders, heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, kidney disease, sexual issues, narrow-angle glaucoma, low levels of sodium in your blood, think you may be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Paxil CR and other medications, such as aspirin, pimozide, cimetidine, warfarin, St. John’s wort, Adderall, fentanyl, phenytoin, buspirone, etc. Do not use this drug within 14 days before or after using an MAO inhibitor like isocarboxazid, methylene blue injection, selegiline, or phenelzine. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Paxil CR. Taking an SSRI antidepressant during pregnancy may cause serious lung problems or other complications in the baby. However, you may have a relapse of depression if you stop taking your antidepressant. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy with your doctor. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before using Paxil CR. Paroxetine HCl passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not use this medicine in children without talking to your doctor.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Paxil CR comes as a tablet. Swallow the tablet by mouth. Do not crush, chew, or break it. It may take up to 4 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve. This drug can cause dizziness and impair your reactions. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how the drug affects you. Avoid alcohol when taking Paxil CR. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects. Store Paxil CR at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Paxil CR?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Paxil CR.