Paroxetine

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on 19/03/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Paroxetine

CHINESE NAME: 帕羅西汀

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Seroxat / Seroxat CR (controlled-release tablet), Parotin, Paxil

DRUG CLASS: Antidepressant, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

USED FOR: Major depressive disorder, bipolar major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, panic disorder

OTHER DRUGS IN THE SAME CLASS: Citalopram, Escitalopram, Fluvoxamine, Fluoxetine, Sertraline

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS:
– 10mg, 20mg (tablets)
– 12.5mg, 25mg (controlled-release tablets)

What is Paroxetine for?

Paroxetine belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) like Sertraline. SSRIs are antidepressants which work by allowing a type of chemicals, serotonin, to stay longer in the brain in order to boost mood. It is usually used to treat anxiety, depression, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and menopausal symptoms.

How to use it?

Paroxetine can be taken by mouth in conventional tablets.

The usual initial dose of Paroxetine is 5-20 mg daily (or 12.5 mg of the controlled-release). Your doctor may increase the dose based on your response, usually to a maximum of 60 mg per day (or 75 mg of controlled release).

What are the side effects of Paroxetine?

Common side effects of Paroxetine include excessive sweating, nausea and vomiting, headache, insomnia, ejaculation disorders. For people who are concerned about or experience nausea, switching to Paroxetine controlled-release can help reduce this side effect.

Who should not take Paroxetine?

– People who are allergic to Paroxetine
– People taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Pharmacist Tips:

– It often takes a few weeks to see noticeable improvement in your symptoms.
– Do not stop Paroxetine abruptly since withdrawal syndrome can occur.

Common dosing schedule:
Paroxetine can be taken with or without food.

Do not drink alcohol as it may worsen your mood or anxiety.

Some common medications Paroxetine may interact:
– Metoclopramide
– Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, e.g. Rasagiline, Selegiline)
– Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. Diclofenac, Ibuprofen

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Paroxetine in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Paroxetine is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk/

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Paroxetine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.